Immerse yourself in the flavors of the Mediterranean with this « Sun-Kissed Chicken Pasta. » Vibrant cherry tomatoes, succulent chicken breast, and a symphony of fresh herbs come together to create a dish that’s both hearty and refreshing. Perfect for family dinners or a special evening, this recipe combines comfort and sophistication. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform your table into a celebration of sun-drenched flavors.
Ingredients
- 280g chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 300g pasta (your choice, e.g., penne or spaghetti)
- 100g cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/2 onion (finely chopped)
- 1 green pointed pepper (sliced)
- 60g black olives (sliced)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 300g strained tomatoes
- Handful of fresh basil leaves
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp parsley
- 1/2 tsp sweet paprika
- Chili flakes (to taste)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Parmesan cheese (grated, for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set aside.
Sear the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then cook the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until golden and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Add the green pointed pepper and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
Build the Sauce:
- Stir in the strained tomatoes, halved cherry tomatoes, oregano, parsley, and chili flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Combine the Ingredients:
- Return the chicken to the skillet and mix well with the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan over the pasta. Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
Notes
- Swap chicken breast for shrimp or tofu for a seafood or vegetarian twist.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for depth of flavor.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.
- Experiment with fresh thyme or rosemary for an earthy touch.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~450
Fat: ~12g
Carbohydrates: ~55g
Protein: ~28g
We hope you enjoy this flavorful journey to the Mediterranean! If you try this recipe, let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media with the hashtag #SunKissedPasta!