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Zesty Spicy Chicken Fra Diavolo Pasta for Cozy Nights In

A perfect blend of heat and comfort, Zesty Spicy Chicken Fra Diavolo Pasta transforms simple ingredients into a warm and inviting dish.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: comfort food, Easy Recipe, Italian pasta, spicy chicken, Weeknight Dinner, Zesty Spicy Chicken Fra Diavolo Pasta
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 500kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Large pot

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts adjust quantity based on servings needed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil use generously for best results

For the Sauce

  • 4 cloves fresh garlic choose firm cloves for maximum potency
  • 28 ounces canned San Marzano tomatoes high-quality ingredient for rich, sweet taste
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust according to your heat preference

For the Pasta

  • 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti or linguine) choose your favorite type

For Garnishing

  • 1 cup fresh basil sprinkle over the top before serving
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese adds richness that balances heat

Instructions

Main Steps

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, cooking until golden brown on both sides (about 6-8 minutes). Remove and let rest before slicing.
  • In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (approximately 1 minute). Add canned San Marzano tomatoes and red pepper flakes, stirring and simmering for 10 minutes to develop flavors.
  • Boil salted water in a large pot and add the pasta. Cook until al dente, according to package instructions, then reserve a cup of cooking water and drain the rest.
  • Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss in the drained pasta, adding reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
  • Stir in freshly chopped basil just before serving. Top with generously grated Parmesan cheese and enjoy this delightful dish hot!

Notes

For an extra kick, add more red pepper flakes to individual servings.