Spanish-Style Chicken and Tomato Spaghetti
This Spanish-style chicken and tomato spaghetti is a hearty, flavorful pasta dish infused with smoky paprika, garlic, and a rich tomato sauce. Inspired by Spanish cuisine, it features tender chicken, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a blend of Mediterranean spices, making it a delicious and satisfying meal for any night of the week
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Pasta:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
12 oz (340g) spaghetti
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Spanish Tomato Sauce:
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 can (14 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
½ cup tomato sauce
1 tsp tomato paste
½ cup chicken broth (or white wine for depth)
1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
½ tsp cumin
1 bay leaf
¼ cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Grated Manchego or Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water.
Cook spaghetti 1-2 minutes less than package instructions (it will finish in the sauce).
Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Season chicken with paprika, salt, pepper, and oregano.
Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Spanish Tomato Sauce
In the same pan, add 1 tbsp olive oil, onion, and red bell pepper.
Saute for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic, cumin, and red pepper flakes; cook for 30 seconds.
Add fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, and bay leaf.
Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove the bay leaf.
4. Combine Everything
Add the cooked chicken and drained spaghetti to the sauce.
Toss everything together and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the pasta absorbs the sauce.
5. Serve & Garnish
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil.
Top with grated Manchego or Parmesan cheese.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes & Tips
Make It Spicier: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
For Extra Smokiness: Use chorizo instead of chicken or add smoked paprika.
Want More Veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or olives.
Make It Creamy: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream before serving.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Add a splash of broth or water and warm on low heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Yes! Penne, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta work well.
Q: Can I use canned chicken or rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes! Just shred it and add it when combining everything.
Q: What cheese substitutes work well?
A: Feta, goat cheese, or Pecorino Romano can be used instead of Manchego.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes! Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 450
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 6g
Sodium: 480mg
Iron: 15% DV
This Spanish-style chicken spaghetti is a flavorful, easy-to-make meal that brings a Mediterranean twist to classic pasta night. It’s smoky, hearty, and packed with bold Spanish flavors.