Spicy Chicken Spaghetti
If you’re looking for a warm and satisfying meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare, chicken spaghetti is a great option. This dish combines tender chicken with flavorful spices and pasta in a way that’s both comforting and filling. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or even a small celebration.
This version of chicken spaghetti is packed with flavor but simple enough for anyone to make. It allows room for creativity and customization, depending on what you enjoy most in a pasta dish. Whether you’re someone who enjoys bold spices or prefers a milder taste, this dish can be easily adapted to your preference.
WHAT MAKES CHICKEN SPAGHETTI SPECIAL
Chicken spaghetti brings together the heartiness of chicken and the comfort of pasta in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. The recipe can be customized to include vegetables, extra spices, or even your choice of pasta. You can make it spicier with chili flakes or milder by cutting back on the heat. The ingredients are easy to find and likely already in your kitchen.
Many people enjoy this dish because it’s so versatile. You can prepare it with pantry-friendly ingredients and make adjustments based on what you have on hand. It’s also easy to double the recipe if you’re cooking for a group.
MAIN INGREDIENTS FOR CHICKEN SPAGHETTI
Here are the ingredients typically used in this dish:
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts work well. If using frozen chicken, allow it to defrost fully before cooking. Chicken thighs or a substitute protein can be used if preferred.
- Olive Oil: Used for pan-frying the chicken and cooking the sauce.
- Spices: Smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper add a balanced heat and flavor. These can be adjusted to your spice tolerance.
- Spaghetti: Traditional spaghetti is used, but other long pasta like linguine or fettuccine will also work.
- Chicken Stock: Homemade chicken stock adds depth to the flavor, but store-bought stock is also a good option.
- Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Fresh tomatoes give body to the sauce, while tomato paste adds richness and sweetness.
- Aromatics: Garlic, ginger, and onion provide the base flavors that enhance the entire dish.
- Chili Flakes: These can be added for extra spice, depending on your preference.
- Fresh Parsley: Used as a garnish for a fresh, herby finish.
- Salt: Added to taste.
HOW TO MAKE CHICKEN SPAGHETTI
This dish can be made in a few simple steps:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the spaghetti until it is al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Mix the chicken with spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Let it marinate briefly if time allows.
- Pan-Fry the Chicken: In a hot pan with olive oil, cook the seasoned chicken until it’s golden and cooked through. Set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pan, sauté garlic, onion, and ginger. Add tomatoes and tomato paste, then cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Chicken Stock: Deglaze the pan by adding chicken stock, stirring to combine all the flavors.
- Combine Everything: Stir the cooked chicken and pasta into the sauce. Mix well until everything is coated.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top and serve warm.
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT CHICKEN SPAGHETTI
How spicy is this dish?
The base recipe has a medium level of heat. If you prefer less spice, reduce the chili flakes. If you enjoy extra heat, feel free to add more according to your taste.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, spaghetti is commonly used, but any long-cut pasta like linguine, bucatini, or fettuccine can be substituted.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just use gluten-free pasta and check that all your other ingredients are also gluten-free. Cornstarch can be used to thicken the sauce if needed.
How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. For reheating, you can use a microwave or stovetop:
- Microwave: Add a splash of water and cover the dish. Heat for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, stirring until evenly warmed through.
TIPS FOR MAKING THE BEST CHICKEN SPAGHETTI
- Adjust the level of spice by starting with a small amount and tasting as you go.
- Don’t overcook the pasta. It’s better when it still has a slight bite.
- Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the sauce thicken and the flavors blend together.
- For best results, avoid freezing as this may affect the texture of the pasta.
- Making the sauce from scratch allows more control over the flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Chicken spaghetti goes well with sides that add variety in texture and flavor. Here are a few suggestions:
Bread Options
- Garlic bread
- Pull-apart garlic loaf
- Crusty Dutch oven bread
Salads
- Tomato mozzarella salad
- Tomato cucumber salad
- Simple tomato salad
- Kachumbari (fresh tomato-onion salad popular in East Africa)
Pairing it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread can help create a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Chicken spaghetti is a flexible, tasty meal that doesn’t require fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. It’s a comforting option for those busy evenings when you want something filling without too much fuss. The recipe offers plenty of room for adjustments, whether you prefer a little more heat, want to include extra vegetables, or need a gluten-free version.
Whether making it for the first time or returning to a family favorite, chicken spaghetti can easily become a go-to meal in your recipe collection.
Spicy Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz spaghetti or any long-cut pasta you love
Chicken Marinade:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper adjust to your heat preference
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 chicken breasts cut into bite-size pieces, let them sit out until room temp
Sauce Base:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- ½ tsp fresh grated ginger
- 4 medium tomatoes finely diced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to your liking
Instructions
- Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in the pasta and cook until al dente—about 10-12 minutes. Drain, but save a bit of that pasta water (you might need it later to loosen up the sauce).
- In a bowl, mix together olive oil, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in and make sure they’re coated all over.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tbsp olive oil. Add the marinated chicken and sauté for about 5 minutes, turning so all sides get golden brown. Once done, remove and set aside.
- Using the same skillet, toss in your onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Stir in red pepper flakes, garlic, and ginger. Add in your diced tomatoes and tomato paste—let that cook down on medium-low for 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Season with a bit more salt and pepper if needed.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Mix well and let everything heat through for about 3 minutes. Add a splash or two of the reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
- Top with fresh parsley—and a sprinkle of parmesan if you’re feeling cheesy.
Notes
- Spice level is totally up to you—start light and add more heat later if needed.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; a little chew makes a big difference.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving so the sauce thickens and the flavors come together.
- For best results, store leftovers in the fridge—not the freezer.
- Make your sauce from scratch whenever possible—it really boosts the flavor.
- Be gentle with the chicken. Cook it just until it’s no longer pink so it stays juicy.
- Please note that the nutritional values are provided by an online calculator and should be considered as an estimate.
