Description
Chicken Marinara Pasta
Ingredients:
For the pasta:
400 g (14 oz) rotini pasta
Salt for boiling water
For the chicken:
2 chicken breasts, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the sauce:
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for creamier sauce)
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
For garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the chicken:
Season the diced chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the sauce:
In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer over medium heat. If using, stir in the heavy cream and red pepper flakes for added creaminess and spice.
Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine and serve:
Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated.
Serve in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy hot!
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by preparing all ingredients: dice the chicken, measure your spices, and grate the Parmesan. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding the rotini. While the pasta cooks, season the chicken thoroughly. Use the same skillet for the chicken and sauce to build flavor. After removing the cooked chicken, deglaze the pan with the marinara sauce, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer the sauce to let the flavors meld before adding the cream (if using). Finally, combine the drained pasta and chicken with the sauce, tossing well to ensure every piece is coated.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty pasta dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a vegetable boost, serve with roasted broccoli or garlic bread. A light, crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the tomato-based sauce perfectly.
How-to Summary
To make Chicken Marinara Pasta: 1) Boil and drain rotini pasta. 2) Season and pan-sear diced chicken until golden. 3) Simmer marinara sauce (with optional cream and red pepper) in the same pan. 4) Toss everything together and garnish with parsley and Parmesan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, or farfalle all work well as they hold sauce effectively.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Simply omit the heavy cream and Parmesan garnish. The marinara sauce will still be flavorful on its own.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great option for more tender and juicy meat. Adjust cooking time as needed until fully cooked.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it’s no longer pink in the center and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Cook only until al dente, as it will continue to absorb sauce when combined.
- Crowding the pan when cooking chicken: Cook in a single layer to ensure proper browning, not steaming.
- Adding cheese directly to the main pot: Always garnish individual servings with Parmesan to prevent it from becoming clumpy in leftovers.
- Skipping the seasoning for the chicken: The spices are crucial for building depth of flavor beyond the sauce.
Conclusion
This Chicken Marinara Pasta is a reliable, flavorful weeknight dinner that feels special without requiring complex techniques. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Its versatility allows for easy customization based on dietary needs or pantry staples. We hope this enhanced guide helps you master this delicious, comforting dish.