Description
Spicy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish featuring tender marinated chicken cooked with a spicy and savory sauce, combined with al dente penne pasta tossed in olive oil and Parmesan cheese. This recipe offers a perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and umami with a touch of sweetness from brown sugar, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Marinade and Cooking
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 Tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (for pasta)
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces dried penne pasta
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, brown sugar, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes. Add the diced chicken pieces and stir well to coat them evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours, to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and toss immediately with 1 teaspoon olive oil and the remaining Parmesan cheese to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken along with the marinade mixture to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, for 10 to 12 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
- Toss Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the chicken. Gently toss everything together to combine and warm through. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste.
- Serve: Immediately plate the pasta and chicken. Garnish with thinly sliced green onion and extra Parmesan cheese for added freshness and richness. Serve hot for best flavor.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight intensifies the flavor and tenderizes the meat.
- You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your preferred spice level.
- Low-sodium soy sauce is recommended to control sodium content; regular soy sauce can make the dish saltier.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best texture and taste.
- This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
