Spicy Chicken Pasta

I want to begin by apologizing for my lack of posts this month. I realize it's over half way through April and I've only posted twice! My only excuse is that I've been incredibly busy with school work (and some wedding planning thrown in there too!) but since everyone is busy with something or another, I will try to do better. This dish is great for anyone who is busy and doesn't want a long cooking time or a lot of dishes to do after the meal is over. I know that after a long day of school (or work) I want to enjoy a good meal without a lot of work either before or after. This meal needs a large pot for boiling the pasta and one large pan with a lid to cook everything else. With lean chicken breast, zucchini and tomatoes, this dish is definitely healthy and if you use whole wheat pasta, which I highly recommend for its delicious nutty flavor, you'll add even more health benefits like fiber. All in all, a simple weeknight dinner that's great for both your mental and physical health.

Spicy chicken pasta

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  
• 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes
• 1 8 oz can tomato sauce
• 1 tsp dried basil
  
• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1 inch cubes
• 3-4 medium zucchini
• 1/4 c parmesan cheese
• salt and pepper
• 1/2 lb whole wheat penne pasta (or whatever type you like)

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large pan, with a lid.
Saute the garlic and red pepper flakes for about 30 seconds.
Pour in both cans of tomatoes, stirring to combine; season with basil, a pinch of salt and pepper.
Stir in the chicken and cover; cook for about 3-5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken.
Slice the zucchini lengthwise into four spears (half and then half again), then cut into 1/2 thick sections.
Stir zucchini in with chicken and cover; cook for another 5 to 8 minutes, until zucchini are tender; remove chicken as it cooks through.
When water comes to a boil, cook pasta according to package directions, about 10 minutes.
Drain pasta and toss with sauce and parmesan cheese; adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

For a printable recipe click here


Spicy Chicken Pasta