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Spicy Peanut Chicken Pasta

Spicy Peanut Chicken Pasta

Spicy Peanut Chicken Pasta is a quick and easy dinner packed with bold, creamy flavors. Tender chicken is tossed in a luscious peanut sauce with a perfect spicy kick, combined with perfectly cooked pasta for a satisfying and delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes. This one-pan recipe is family-friendly, versatile, and ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Pasta

  • 8 oz linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine

Sauce

  • 1/2 cup smooth, natural peanut butter
  • 12 tbsp chili sauce or Sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup coconut milk or cream
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp lime juice

Garnishes

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Crushed peanuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Lightly season with salt and pepper. Cook in a hot pan until golden and cooked through. Set aside and keep warm.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving some pasta water to loosen sauce if needed.
  3. Make the Peanut Sauce: In the same pan, sauté minced garlic and ginger until fragrant. Stir in peanut butter, chili sauce, soy sauce, coconut milk, and lime juice. Whisk into a smooth, creamy sauce, adding reserved pasta water gradually to reach desired consistency.
  4. Combine and Toss: Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta back into the pan. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece and pasta strand in the spicy peanut sauce.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Finish with chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts if desired. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

  • Use smooth, natural peanut butter for the best creamy texture and flavor.
  • Cook pasta al dente to keep texture when tossed with sauce.
  • Add chili sauce gradually, tasting as you go to control spice level.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency perfectly.
  • Fresh herbs brighten the dish and balance richness.

Nutrition

Keywords: spicy peanut chicken pasta, peanut sauce pasta, quick dinner, creamy peanut chicken, easy pasta recipes, spicy pasta dishes, one pan dinner, weeknight meal