Spicy Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances warmth, spice, and comforting pasta goodness, this Spicy Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. It’s vibrant, full of bold flavors from smoked paprika and cayenne, and absolutely satisfying with tender chicken and fresh spinach. Whether you want a quick weeknight meal or a dish that’ll impress friends, this Spicy Chicken Pasta Recipe delivers deliciously every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Spicy Chicken Pasta Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients that work together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each component—from the spices to the fresh herbs—plays a crucial role in bringing that perfect balance of heat, savoriness, and freshness.

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta: Choose your favorite type; penne or fusilli hold sauce well for maximum flavor in every bite.
• 2 chicken breasts: Thinly sliced to ensure quick cooking and a tender texture that soaks up the spices.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a robust garlicky foundation without overpowering the dish.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings slight sweetness and depth to the chicken’s seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: The secret for a smoky, slightly sweet touch that defines this spicy dish.
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Just enough to give a lively kick; adjust to your heat preference.
• Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and highlighting the spices.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For a perfect sear and rich flavor when cooking the chicken.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brightens the sauce and enhances aroma.
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth: Creates a lush base that lifts the sauce’s flavor complexity.
• 1 (14 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The hearty tomato base giving the sauce its vibrant color and tang.
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Builds on the spicy profile with a textured heat sensation.
• 1 pinch of sugar (optional): Just a touch to mellow acidity and round out the tomato sauce.
• 2 cups packed fresh baby spinach: Adds a fresh, bright contrast and a lovely pop of color.
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn or chopped: Brings herbal sweetness and lifts the entire dish.
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional): The perfect finishing touch for a salty, creamy boost when serving.

How to Make Spicy Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Al Dente

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente, following the package directions. This stage is crucial because perfectly cooked pasta gives you that ideal chewy texture that pairs wonderfully with the rich spicy sauce.

Step 2: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts lengthwise into thinner pieces so they cook evenly. Mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Generously rub this spice blend on both sides of the chicken, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken pieces for 5 to 6 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest.

Step 4: Build the Flavorful Sauce

Lower the heat to medium, add the minced garlic to the same skillet, and sauté briefly until fragrant. Pour in the white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up all the flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let it bubble for about 30 seconds.

Step 5: Simmer the Tomato Sauce

Add crushed tomatoes and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for around 5 minutes, stirring occasionally so those spicy flavors meld into a robust, delicious sauce base.

Step 6: Slice the Chicken

While the sauce simmers, slice the rested chicken into strips. This makes it easy to toss in later and ensures evenly distributed protein in every bite of the pasta.

Step 7: Season the Sauce to Perfection

Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed. If the tomatoes feel too acidic, add a pinch or two of sugar to smooth it out. You can also boost the heat with more cayenne or red pepper flakes if you prefer things spicier.

Step 8: Combine Pasta, Greens, and Sauce

Stir fresh baby spinach and torn basil into the sauce so they wilt gently and release fresh, herbaceous aromas. Then, add your drained pasta and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, a few tablespoons of reserved hot pasta water can loosen it and help it cling perfectly to every piece.

Step 9: Serve with Chicken and Optional Cheese

Top the spicy pasta with the sliced chicken strips. Serve immediately and sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired for that added layer of savory indulgence.

How to Serve Spicy Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Spicy Chicken Pasta Recipe, consider garnishing with a handful of fresh basil leaves for an extra punch of herbal freshness. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese adds richness and a beautiful finish that makes the dish feel even more special.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the heat. Garlic bread or warm crusty bread is another fantastic choice, perfect for sopping up every last drop of that flavorful sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stylish presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls topped with chicken strips arranged in a fan shape. Adding a colorful sprinkle of chopped sun-dried tomatoes or a light dusting of chili flakes can add visual appeal and hint at the dish’s spicy personality.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Spicy Chicken Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the pasta cools to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent sogginess and maintain the best texture.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that pasta might become slightly softer upon reheating, so freezing is best for the sauce and chicken combined with pasta cooked just al dente.

Reheating

When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Reheat slowly to keep the chicken tender and the flavors well balanced without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this Spicy Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While short pasta like penne or fusilli works best to hold the sauce, feel free to use spaghetti, linguine, or even gluten-free options depending on your preference.

How spicy is this recipe, and can I reduce the heat?

This recipe offers a moderate level of heat thanks to the cayenne and red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust the spice by reducing or omitting these ingredients according to your taste.

What if I don’t have white wine, can I substitute chicken broth?

Yes, chicken broth is a great non-alcoholic alternative that still adds moisture and depth to the sauce, making it just as tasty without the wine.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can season and even cook the chicken in advance, then just make the sauce and boil the pasta when ready to serve for a quick meal.

Is this Spicy Chicken Pasta Recipe suitable for meal prepping?

It sure is! Portion out the pasta and chicken with the sauce into meal prep containers and refrigerate or freeze. It reheats well for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Chicken Pasta Recipe has quickly become a staple for anyone who loves bold flavor without complicated steps. It’s comforting, satisfying, and has just the right amount of heat to make your taste buds dance. I hope you give this recipe a try soon and enjoy every vibrant, spicy mouthful as much as I do.

Print