Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This One-Pan Sweet and Smoky Garlic Chicken Pasta offers convenience and flavor in every bite. It’s a simple, no-fuss meal that doesn’t require much prep or cleanup. The tender chicken breast is perfectly seasoned with a smoky and slightly sweet touch, while the pasta soaks up all the delicious flavors of the broth and spices. The addition of fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes provides a pop of color and nutrition, while the Parmesan adds a creamy, salty finish. This recipe is easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or farfalle)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and brown sugar. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the pasta, chicken broth, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has absorbed.
- Stir in the spinach and cooked chicken, cooking until spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
- Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Storage/Reheating
This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen up the sauce. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, fusilli, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.
2. Can I make this dish with chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this dish. They will add extra richness and flavor. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly before removing them from the pan.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a vegetarian version. You may want to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.
4. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach will work as a substitute for fresh spinach. Make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish to avoid excess moisture.
5. Can I use other types of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes, feel free to use other cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
6. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prep some ingredients ahead of time, such as chopping the chicken and vegetables, so the cooking process will be faster.
7. What can I serve this pasta with?
This pasta goes well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
8. Can I use store-bought chicken broth?
Yes, store-bought chicken broth is perfectly fine for this recipe. Just ensure it’s a good quality broth for the best flavor.
9. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. You can also add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
10. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as described in the storage section.
Conclusion
This One-Pan Sweet and Smoky Garlic Chicken Pasta is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that brings a burst of flavor with every bite. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty but simple to prepare. The smoky garlic chicken, tender pasta, and fresh veggies come together to create a meal that’s sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy!
Print
One-Pan Sweet and Smoky Garlic Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This One-Pan Sweet and Smoky Garlic Chicken Pasta is an easy, flavorful dinner option. Tender chicken, smoky paprika, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar are combined with pasta, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes. All cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup, this dish is perfect for busy nights or a cozy weekend dinner. With smoky, savory flavors and a creamy finish from Parmesan, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or farfalle)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and brown sugar. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the pasta, chicken broth, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has absorbed.
- Stir in the spinach and cooked chicken, cooking until spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
- Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can swap chicken breast for thighs for a richer flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
- Frozen spinach can be substituted for fresh spinach – just thaw and drain it before adding.
- To make the dish dairy-free, omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta, One-Pan Meals
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
