Before we dive into the glorious details of crafting a quick and easy 15-minute chicken pasta, let’s talk about what you can serve alongside it. A fresh Mediterranean-inspired salad pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors and offering a crunch that complements the dish.
A light arugula salad dressed with a splash of lemon and olive oil does the trick. Garlic bread is another classic addition that not only absorbs the lovely sauce but adds a cozy element to the meal. If you want to fancy it up a bit, a glass of crisp white wine could be your best friend.
Now that you’re dreaming about those delightful side dishes, let’s unfold the magic behind this pasta dish.
You’ve had a long day at work, and the last thing you want is to spend an hour in the kitchen. You want something easy, quick, and oh-so-delicious. Enter, stage left, the 15-minute chicken pasta!
This dish bursts with flavor, requires minimal effort, and can turn any ordinary night into a culinary experience. As a recipe blogger who has navigated the chaotic kitchen life, I promise this simple pasta will become a staple in your household.
What is Quick Easy 15-Minute Chicken Pasta?
In plain terms, quick and easy 15-minute chicken pasta is a straightforward dish that combines chicken, pasta, and delightful seasonings. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, allowing anyone to whip it up in no time.
It involves sautéing chicken strips, tossing them with cooked pasta, and infusing flavor through rich marinara sauce and aromatic spices. The result is a comforting meal that’ll satisfy your cravings without keeping you tied to the stove for too long.
You will also like the following Dinner recipes!
- Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Healthy Roasted Chicken And Veggies
- Creamy Lemon Chicken With Asparagus Recipe
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Quick Easy 15-Minute Chicken Pasta?
Many recipes claim to be quick and easy, but let’s face it, not all deliver on that promise. What sets this chicken pasta apart is the balance of freshness and flavor combined with its efficiency.
By using basic ingredients like garlic, onions, and bell peppers, the taste is elevated without making the process complicated. Additionally, the inclusion of smoked paprika and red pepper flakes adds a delightful warmth, setting it apart from bland alternatives.
How Does It Taste Like?
Imagine savory, tender chicken combined with the comfort of perfectly cooked pasta, wrapped in a lightly spiced marinara sauce. Each bite is a harmonious blend of garlic and herbs, with the cheese melting into the mix, creating a creamy texture.
The peppers add a subtle crunch, balancing the overall experience. It’s a dish that’s rich without feeling heavy, making you go back for seconds—without the guilt.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for a successful cooking experience. This recipe uses simple, widely available items:
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 chicken breast fillets, sliced into strips
3 garlic cloves, finely minced
1/2 small yellow onion, finely diced
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 teaspoon each: sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup tomato basil marinara sauce
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
3 cups cooked penne pasta
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Italian cheese blend
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking! Below, I’ve outlined simple steps to ensure your chicken pasta is both fast and fabulous.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, chop your ingredients. Slice the chicken, mince the garlic, and dice the onion and red bell pepper. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smoother and keeps you from hovering over cutting boards while the chicken is sizzling away.
Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil
In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the olive oil. Wait until it shimmers—this usually takes about a minute. Once it’s ready, it’s showtime for the chicken!
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Toss the sliced chicken into the skillet. Season with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Sauté it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the chicken to turn golden brown and cook through.
Step 4: Add the Aromatics
Once the chicken is browned, add the minced garlic and diced onion to the pan. Cook for another minute. Don’t let the garlic burn; you want it just until fragrant. It’s like the smell of home cooking wafting through the house!
Step 5: Toss in the Bell Pepper
Next, stir in the diced red bell pepper. You want it to maintain some crunch, so only cook for about 2 minutes. This step adds texture and a burst of color to your dish.
Step 6: Combine with Marinara Sauce
Pour in the marinara sauce.
Add the dried oregano and red pepper flakes to the mix. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the sauce is too thick, feel free to add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Mix the Pasta
This is where the magic happens! Add the cooked penne pasta straight into the skillet. Carefully toss everything together, ensuring each piece of pasta is coated in the delicious sauce.
Step 8: Finish with Cheese
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top and let it melt into the warm pasta. Then, for that final touch, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it to sit for a minute, and then serve hot.
Tips & Tricks on Making Quick Easy 15-Minute Chicken Pasta
Here are some handy tips to ensure your cooking experience is smooth:
Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Save time by using rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures the pasta holds its shape and texture after mixing with the sauce.
Customize Your Veggies: Don’t hesitate to mix in other vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or zucchini based on your family’s preferences.
Add Fresh Herbs: A handful of fresh basil or parsley can elevate the flavors significantly.
Adjust Spiciness: Control the heat by tweaking the amount of red pepper flakes according to your taste.
Nutrition Information
Quick Easy 15 Minute Chicken Pasta Recipe Nutrition Facts
How Do I Store This Dish?
Storing leftovers is simple. Place any uneaten chicken pasta in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-4 days.
If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just transfer it to a freezer-safe container and it can last for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water to restore moisture.
What Other Substitute Can You Use in Quick Easy 15-Minute Chicken Pasta?
Here are some great substitutes to keep the dish fresh and exciting:
Chicken Alternatives: Instead of chicken, try shrimp or tofu for a different protein.
Different Pasta Shapes: Use any pasta shape you prefer—farfalle, fusilli, or spaghetti will work just fine.
Vegetable Sauce: Swap marinara with pesto or alfredo sauce for a completely different flavor profile.
Non-Dairy Cheese: If you’re avoiding dairy, look for cashew-based cheese for a creamy touch.
Gluten-Free Options: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
Quick Easy 15 Minute Chicken Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Pan
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 chicken breast fillets sliced into strips
- 3 garlic cloves finely minced
- 1/2 small yellow onion finely diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper diced
- 1/2 teaspoon each: sea salt black pepper, and smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup tomato basil marinara sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 3 cups cooked penne pasta
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Italian cheese blend
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Before you start cooking, chop your ingredients. Slice the chicken, mince the garlic, and dice the onion and red bell pepper. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smoother and keeps you from hovering over cutting boards while the chicken is sizzling away.
Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil
- In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the olive oil. Wait until it shimmers—this usually takes about a minute. Once it’s ready, it’s showtime for the chicken!
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Toss the sliced chicken into the skillet. Season with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Sauté it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the chicken to turn golden brown and cook through.
Step 4: Add the Aromatics
- Once the chicken is browned, add the minced garlic and diced onion to the pan. Cook for another minute. Don’t let the garlic burn; you want it just until fragrant. It’s like the smell of home cooking wafting through the house!
Step 5: Toss in the Bell Pepper
- Next, stir in the diced red bell pepper. You want it to maintain some crunch, so only cook for about 2 minutes. This step adds texture and a burst of color to your dish.
Step 6: Combine with Marinara Sauce
- Pour in the marinara sauce.
- Add the dried oregano and red pepper flakes to the mix. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the sauce is too thick, feel free to add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Mix the Pasta
- This is where the magic happens! Add the cooked penne pasta straight into the skillet. Carefully toss everything together, ensuring each piece of pasta is coated in the delicious sauce.
Step 8: Finish with Cheese
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top and let it melt into the warm pasta. Then, for that final touch, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it to sit for a minute, and then serve hot.
Notes
- Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Save time by using rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures the pasta holds its shape and texture after mixing with the sauce.
- Customize Your Veggies: Don’t hesitate to mix in other vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or zucchini based on your family’s preferences.
- Add Fresh Herbs: A handful of fresh basil or parsley can elevate the flavors significantly.
- Adjust Spiciness: Control the heat by tweaking the amount of red pepper flakes according to your taste.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and veggies in advance and store them in the fridge. Just toss everything together and heat before serving.
2. Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to add favorites like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms
3. Is this dish good for meal prep?
It’s perfect for meal prep! Just portion it out into containers for grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
4. Can I use different sauces?
Definitely! While marinara is traditional, experimenting with Alfredo or a creamy garlic sauce could add another layer of richness to your pasta.
5. How can I spice it up?
Up the ante by adding more red pepper flakes or using spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken for additional flavor.
Conclusion
In no time, you’ve become a master of quick, delicious meals. This 15-minute chicken pasta is not just a meal; it’s a savior for busy weeknights.
You’ve learned how straightforward ingredients can come together to create something delightful, proving that great flavor doesn’t take long to achieve.
Whether you’re making this dish for a busy family, a weekend gathering, or simply for yourself, I hope it brings joy to your table as it has to mine.
Grab your apron, get cooking, and enjoy the satisfaction of a meal that’s both quick and tasty!
