Spicy Chicken and Black Bean Pasta
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this zesty and satisfying Spicy Chicken and Black Bean Pasta, a bold fusion of flavors that’s ready in just 40 minutes. Tender chicken breast is seared to perfection, then paired with al dente pasta, protein-packed black beans, and a rich tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic garlic, smoky cumin, and a kick of red chili flakes. A fresh squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro brighten each bite, while optional Parmesan adds a touch of creamy indulgence. Perfect for spice lovers, this easy-to-follow recipe is a one-pan wonder that delivers vibrant flavor, wholesome ingredients, and a cozy, family-friendly meal. Serve it up for a comforting yet invigorating dinner that's sure to impress!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 cup black beans
- 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, fusilli, or similar)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the skillet, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Reduce heat to medium and sauté the minced garlic, chili flakes, and cumin for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Add the black beans, canned diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato paste, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine and let simmer for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Stir in the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to coat the pasta in the sauce. Add the sliced chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine.
Remove from heat and stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
468 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 16.2 g | 21% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.7 g | 19% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 82 mg | 27% | |
| Sodium | 1081 mg | 47% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 40.4 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.7 g | 24% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.8 g | ||
| Protein | 39.2 g | 78% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 175 mg | 13% | |
| Iron | 2.9 mg | 16% | |
| Potassium | 611 mg | 13% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
