Spaghetti with Sautéed Chicken and Grape Tomatoes
This recipe was inspired by the abundance of tomatoes and basil in my garden. These grape tomatoes are so sweet and addicting. Toss them with some low carb pasta and diced chicken and you have a delicious, healthy meal in less than 20 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
This recipe was inspired by the abundance of tomatoes and basil in my garden. These grape tomatoes are so sweet and addicting. Toss them with some low carb pasta and diced chicken and you have a delicious, healthy meal in less than 20 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
- cooking spray
- 2 skinless chicken breast halves diced in 1 inch cubes
- 1/2 tsp each of dried oregano and dries basil
- kosher salt and fresh pepper
- 8 oz spaghetti (high fiber or low carb) i used ronzoni smart taste
- 2 cups grape tomatoes halved
- 6 cloves garlic smashed and coarsely chopped
- 4 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 tbsp chopped fresh basil
- Carbohydrate 46.2282687499958 g
- Cholesterol 34.22 mg
- Fat 3.89989999563698 g
- Fiber 2.78350005797788 g
- Protein 21.873206249995 g
- Saturated Fat 0.671633874397629 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (196g)
- Sodium 46.2504999999064 mg
- Sugar 43.4447686920179 g
- Trans Fat 0.582035749881683 g
- Calories 312 calories
Step-by-step
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
- Season chicken generously with salt, pepper, oregano and basil. Heat a large skillet on high heat. When hot, spray with oil and add chicken. Cook about 3-4 minutes, until no longer pink. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Add pasta and cook according to package directions. Reserve about 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- While pasta cooks, add olive oil to skillet on high heat. Add garlic and sauté until golden brown (do not burn). Add tomatoes, salt and pepper and reduce heat to medium-low. Sauté about 4-5 minutes.
- When pasta is drained, add pasta to tomatoes and toss well. If pasta seems too dry, add some of the reserved pasta water.
- Add fresh basil and chicken and toss well.
- Serve and top with good grated cheese.
A Weeknight Wonder: Speedy Spaghetti with Sautéed Chicken and Grape Tomatoes
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are a whirlwind of homework, extracurricular activities, and the ever-present battle against bedtime resistance. But even amidst the chaos, I refuse to let dinner become a fast-food frenzy. I crave flavorful, satisfying meals that don't demand hours in the kitchen. That's where this recipe comes in – a lifesaver on those hectic weeknights.
This Spaghetti with Sautéed Chicken and Grape Tomatoes is my go-to when I need a quick, healthy, and incredibly tasty dinner. Inspired by a burst of fresh garden bounty (though store-bought works just as well!), this dish celebrates the simple joy of fresh ingredients. The sweetness of the grape tomatoes, the savory chicken, and the fragrant basil combine to create a symphony of flavors that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. And the best part? It’s ready in under 20 minutes! That’s faster than ordering pizza, and infinitely more rewarding.
The secret lies in efficient cooking techniques. While the pasta cooks, I quickly sauté the chicken and then the tomatoes and garlic. Everything comes together in a matter of minutes, resulting in a meal that’s both impressive and effortlessly achieved. The vibrant colors alone make it a feast for the eyes, and the satisfying textures and flavors will leave you feeling energized and ready to tackle the rest of the evening. I often use a high-fiber or low-carb pasta to add a nutritional boost, but any spaghetti will do.
Beyond the Recipe: A Taste of Simplicity
This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a philosophy. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients and efficient cooking. In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to get caught up in complicated recipes and elaborate meal prep. But sometimes, the most satisfying meals are the simplest ones. This dish reminds me to savor the little moments, to appreciate the bounty of fresh ingredients, and to find joy in the process of creating something delicious and nourishing for my family.
Adapting to Your Needs:
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gives it a delightful kick, while a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a touch of richness. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp, sausage, or even vegetables for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless!
More Than Just a Meal: A Moment of Connection
For me, cooking is more than just preparing food; it's an act of love and care. It's a way to connect with my family, to create a shared experience around the table. This simple spaghetti dish, whipped up in a matter of minutes, allows me to spend more quality time with my loved ones, instead of being stuck in the kitchen for hours on end. And that, to me, is the greatest reward of all.
So, the next time you're short on time but craving a delicious and healthy meal, give this recipe a try. It's a weeknight winner that's sure to become a family favorite.
