Hearty Chicken Pasta in a Rich Tomato Sauce

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This hearty chicken pasta dish with a rich tomato sauce is perfect for those nights when you crave something comforting yet easy to prepare. Tender chicken pieces simmered in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with a touch of garlic, paprika, and thyme create the ultimate blend of deliciousness. Paired with your choice of pasta, this meal is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The simple ingredients come together in just under 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 3 chicken fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper (paprika), sliced
  • 2 cups tomatoes, finely chopped (use canned or fresh)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 7 oz pasta (your choice)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Paprika, thyme, and additional paprika mixture (to taste)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

  • Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a vigorous boil.
  • Add your preferred pasta and cook it according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain and keep it aside.

2. Sear the Chicken:

  • In a large skillet, warm a tablespoon of olive oil over a medium flame.
  • Season the chicken pieces with salt, paprika, and thyme, then add them to the skillet.
  • Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

  • In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, and sauté the chopped onion and sliced bell pepper.
  • Cook for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.

4. Add Garlic and Tomato Base:

  • Toss the minced garlic into the skillet and sauté for about a minute, or until it becomes aromatic.
  • Stir in the tomato paste and chopped tomatoes, mixing well.
  • Season with salt, paprika, and a pinch of thyme. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and thicken slightly.

5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the tomato sauce.
  • Allow everything to simmer together for another 5 minutes to marry the flavors.

6. Toss with Pasta:

  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is coated with the tomato sauce and the chicken is evenly distributed.

7. Garnish and Serve:

  • Serve the hearty chicken pasta hot, with a side of crusty bread or a light salad if desired.

Conclusion:

This hearty chicken pasta in a rich tomato sauce is the perfect combination of comfort and flavor. The well-seasoned chicken, tender pasta, and vibrant tomato sauce create a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, this meal is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Simple, delicious, and ready in no time!

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