Rasta Pasta with Spicy Chicken – A Flavorful, Creamy Caribbean-Inspired Dish
Rasta Pasta with Spicy Chicken combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy coconut sauce with a spicy kick. It’s the perfect fusion of Caribbean flavors and Italian pasta – a delicious and unique dish you’ll love!
Why You’ll Love Rasta Pasta with Spicy Chicken:
This Rasta Pasta is a bold, creamy, and spicy dish that’s packed with flavor. The combination of coconut milk, colorful peppers, and seasoned chicken creates a comforting yet exciting meal. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
- Spicy Kick: Seasoned chicken adds heat and depth of flavor.
- Creamy Coconut Sauce: Coconut milk brings richness to the sauce, balancing the spice.
- Colorful Veggies: Red and green bell peppers add a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
- Quick & Easy: This one-pan meal is ready in no time, perfect for a busy day.
Ingredients for Rasta Pasta with Spicy Chicken:
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tablespoons seasoning (such as jerk seasoning or your preferred spice blend)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta (Time: 10 minutes)
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside. - Cook the Chicken (Time: 5-7 minutes)
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with the seasoning, salt, and black pepper, and cook for 5–7 minutes, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. - Sauté the Veggies (Time: 5 minutes)
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced red and green bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Sauté for about 3–5 minutes, until the veggies are tender and aromatic. - Add Coconut Milk (Time: 3 minutes)
Pour the coconut milk into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. - Combine Everything (Time: 3 minutes)
Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together so the pasta is coated in the creamy coconut sauce and mixed with the veggies. If you want extra heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. - Serve & Enjoy (Time: 1 minute)
Once everything is well combined and heated through, serve your Rasta Pasta immediately. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 400-450 per serving (varies based on specific ingredients used)
Tips for the Best Rasta Pasta with Spicy Chicken:
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you like it spicy, add more jerk seasoning or red pepper flakes to the chicken or sauce. For a milder version, use less seasoning.
- Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini to enhance the dish and increase nutrition.
- Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: For the creamiest texture, use full-fat coconut milk. Light coconut milk will work, but the sauce may be thinner.
FAQ About Rasta Pasta with Spicy Chicken:
Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Yes! You can swap the penne for any pasta you prefer, such as fusilli, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Replace the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas. You can also add extra veggies for more flavor.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and veggies ahead of time and assemble the pasta when ready to serve. It’s also great for leftovers!
Final Thoughts:
Rasta Pasta with Spicy Chicken is a deliciously bold, creamy dish that’s packed with flavor from the seasoned chicken, vibrant veggies, and rich coconut milk. This fusion of Caribbean and Italian cuisine will be a hit at your dinner table – whether it’s a casual meal or a special treat.
If you loved this Rasta Pasta with Spicy Chicken, be sure to share it with friends and family! Enjoy!
