Craving a delicious and healthy meal that’s also incredibly easy to make? This One-Pot Healthy Chicken Marinara Rotini is your answer. It’s a flavorful and convenient healthy chicken pasta recipe perfect for busy weeknights, offering a complete meal in a single pot.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken Breast: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Rotini Pasta: Penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well as alternatives.
- Marinara Sauce: Choose a low-sugar, low-sodium marinara for a healthier option.
- Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth is a suitable substitute.
- Spinach: Kale or other leafy greens can be added for extra nutrients.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Spices:
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories
- Tools Needed: Large pot or Dutch oven
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. You don’t need to cook it through entirely at this stage.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the pot with the chicken and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This creates a flavorful base for your healthy chicken pasta.
4. Cook the Pasta
Add the rotini pasta to the simmering sauce, ensuring it’s mostly submerged. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Stir in Spinach and Serve
Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts, which should only take a minute or two. Serve your One-Pot Healthy Chicken Marinara Rotini immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese if you like.
Variation Ideas:
- Add diced bell peppers or zucchini with the onion for more vegetables.
- Stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt at the end for a creamy finish.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Top with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Healthy Chicken Marinara Rotini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm portions in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked shredded chicken. Add it in step 4 with the pasta to warm through.
Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
A: While you can freeze it, pasta can become a bit mushy after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Q: What if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
A: If it’s too thick, add a little more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes until it thickens to your liking.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Omit the chicken and add canned chickpeas or cannellini beans for protein, or use plant-based chicken alternatives.
Q: How can I make this healthier?
A: Opt for whole wheat rotini, use low-sodium broth, and choose a marinara sauce with no added sugar for an even healthier chicken pasta.