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Forkin
DinnerMain Course

Spicy Creamy Chicken Pasta

Tender chicken pieces are marinated in garlic and chili, then pan-fried and simmered in a spicy, creamy onion sauce. This rich and flavorful dish is served over pasta for a satisfying meal.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time
2 hr 45 min
Serves
4
Difficulty
Medium
Per serving
1,222 kcal

Allergen information: may contain gluten and milk. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.

Spicy Creamy Chicken Pasta

Mise en place

Ingredients

main

  • 600 gboneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 400 gpasta, such as penne or fettuccine

marinade

  • 4 clovegarlic, minced
  • 0.75 tspred pepper flakes

sauce

  • 3 tbspolive oil
  • 2 pcsyellow onion, large, halved and thinly sliced
  • 4 clovegarlic, minced
  • 0.75 tspred pepper flakes
  • 480 mlheavy cream
  • 1 tspsalt, or to taste
  • 0.5 tspblack pepper, freshly ground, or to taste

garnish

  • 60 gparmesan cheese, grated

Equipment

large skillet · bowl · large pot · colander · cutting board · knife

The method

Step by step

  1. 1

    In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the garlic and red pepper flakes designated for the marinade.

    About 5 min

    Cook’s note: A resealable plastic bag also works well for marinating.

  2. 2

    Mix well to coat the chicken, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for more flavor.

    About 2 hr

    Cook’s note: If you're short on time, even 30 minutes of marinating will enhance the flavor.

  3. 3

    When ready to cook, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

    About 10 min

  4. 4

    Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain.

    About 10 min

    Cook’s note: Reserve about a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining to help adjust the sauce consistency later.

  5. 5

    While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.

    About 1 min

  6. 6

    Add the garlic and red pepper flakes for the sauce and cook gently for 1 minute until fragrant, making sure the garlic does not burn.

    About 1 min

    Cook’s note: Infusing the oil with garlic and chili at a low temperature builds a deep flavor base.

  7. 7

    Add the sliced onions to the skillet, increase heat to medium, and sauté until soft and tender, about 8-10 minutes.

    About 10 min

  8. 8

    Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through.

    About 8 min

    Cook’s note: Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure it browns rather than steams.

  9. 9

    Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.

    About 3 min

  10. 10

    Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly. Season with salt and black pepper.

    About 5 min

  11. 11

    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat everything in the creamy sauce.

    About 2 min

    Cook’s note: If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

  12. 12

    Serve immediately, topped with grated parmesan cheese.

Per serving

Nutrition

68%Score
Calories
1,222.4kcal
Protein
68.5g
Carbs
90.2g
Fat
66g
Fibre
5.4g
Sugar
12.1g

Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.

Keep it good

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.