For the Garlic Chicken
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1¼ lbs), cut into bite-size strips
3 tbsp olive oil, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Spiral Pasta & Meat Sauce
12 oz spiral (fusilli) pasta
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (24-oz) jar marinara sauce
½ cup chicken or beef broth
1 tsp Italian seasoning
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Spiral Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
Add spiral pasta and cook 8–10 minutes until al dente.
Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
2. Sear the Garlic Chicken
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season chicken strips with salt, pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika.
Add chicken to the skillet, cooking 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Add minced garlic in the last minute, stirring until fragrant. Transfer chicken to a plate.
3. Build the Meat Sauce
In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and chopped onion. Sauté 3–4 minutes until translucent.
Stir in minced garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Pour in marinara sauce and broth. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat and cook 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in cooked chicken strips and grated Parmesan. Heat through.
4. Combine & Serve
Fold the cooked spiral pasta into the skillet, tossing to coat every curl in sauce.
Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil or parsley.
Serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Tips & Variations
Make it lighter: Use ground turkey or chicken and whole-wheat pasta.
Add veggies: Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms when sautéing the onions.
Spicy kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce for extra heat.
Make-ahead: Prepare the sauce a day ahead; reheat and add freshly cooked chicken and pasta.
Nutrition & Storage
Approximate per serving (serves 4): 550 calories, 30g protein, 45g carbs, 22g fat.
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Conclusion
Garlic Chicken with Spiral Pasta & Meat Sauce is your secret weapon for a fuss-free, flavor-loaded dinner that everyone will rave about. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish delivers big on taste and comfort. Try it tonight and watch it become a household favorite!
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