Introduction
Get ready to discover your new favorite weeknight meal: Grilled Chicken Spaghetti! This dish is a delightful twist on a classic, bringing together tender, smoky grilled chicken with perfectly cooked spaghetti in a vibrant, rich tomato sauce. It’s a comfort food dream with a fresh, exciting flavor that will make your taste buds sing.
The best part? This recipe is surprisingly easy to whip up, even on a busy evening. We’ve streamlined the cooking process, ensuring you get maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Grilling the chicken adds a fantastic depth and char that elevates simple spaghetti to something truly extraordinary, all without adding much time to your prep.
So, whether you’re looking for a fresh take on pasta night or a hearty meal that’s sure to impress, this Grilled Chicken Spaghetti is your answer. It’s flavorful, satisfying, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive in and create some deliciousness together!
Cooking Time & Prep Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating)
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes (plus marinating)
Small tip: You can marinate the chicken overnight for even deeper flavor, making weeknight cooking incredibly quick and easy!
Ingredients
Makes 4 servings
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For the Grilled Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
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For the Spaghetti:
- 12 ounces spaghetti (whole wheat or regular)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
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For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat them completely. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours (or even overnight).
Small tip: Marinating allows the flavors to truly sink into the chicken, making it extra tender and delicious.
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Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through with nice grill marks. Remove from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Small tip: Letting the chicken rest keeps it juicy. Don’t cut it right away!
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