Chicken Pasta Arrabiata: A Spicy Delight

Pasta Arrabiata, meaning "angry pasta" in Italian, gets its fiery kick from a vibrant tomato sauce brimming with chili flakes. This recipe elevates the classic by adding succulent chicken, creating a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Let's dive into the deliciousness!

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe serves 4-6 people. Adjust ingredient quantities as needed for your desired serving size.

• For the Chicken:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp paprika

• For the Arrabiata Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1-2 red chili flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• For the Pasta:

  • 1 lb pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Chicken Pasta Arrabiata

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Create the Arrabiata Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Heat over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, red chili flakes, oregano, and basil. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the chili flakes at this point to control the spiciness.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the simmering Arrabiata sauce. Stir to combine and heat through.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

1. While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Serve the Chicken Pasta Arrabiata immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves (optional).

Tips and Variations for your Chicken Pasta Arrabiata:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili flakes to your liking. For a milder dish, use less; for extra heat, add more!
• Vegetables: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients. Sauté them with the garlic before adding the tomatoes.
• Creamy Arrabiata: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Protein Swap: Substitute the chicken with Italian sausage, shrimp, or ground beef for a different flavor profile.
• Make it Ahead: The Arrabiata sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This Chicken Pasta Arrabiata recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delicious blend of spicy tomato sauce and tender chicken! Remember to share your culinary creations using #ChickenPastaArrabiata on social media!