Imagine a mouthwatering one-pan meal that transports you straight to the sunny coastlines of the Mediterranean, without the hassle of complicated cooking techniques. This gluten-free Mediterranean Chicken Pasta is not just a recipe—it's a culinary adventure that combines vibrant flavors, nutritious ingredients, and the convenience of a single-pan preparation. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or someone who craves restaurant-quality meals at home, this recipe promises to revolutionize your dinner routine with its simplicity and incredible taste.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz gluten-free pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup olives, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups spinach
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing chicken breasts, halving cherry tomatoes, slicing olives, and mincing garlic.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wide pan over medium-high heat.
- Season diced chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the hot pan. Cook chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, approximately 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add gluten-free pasta to the pan, then pour in enough water to just cover the pasta. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook pasta, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften and absorb liquid, about 8-10 minutes.
- Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and sliced olives, continuing to cook until pasta is al dente.
- Add spinach and stir until it wilts completely into the pasta and chicken mixture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow sauce to thicken.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality gluten-free pasta and fresh chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
- Prep Before Cooking: Have all ingredients chopped and measured before starting to ensure smooth cooking process.
- Control Your Heat: Medium-high heat is crucial for achieving golden-brown chicken and preventing burning.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning and prevent steaming.
- Watch Pasta Liquid: Add water gradually to prevent the dish from becoming too dry or too watery.
- Timing is Key: Add spinach last to maintain its vibrant color and prevent overcooking.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for 2-3 minutes helps the sauce thicken and flavors meld together.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding crumbled feta cheese or a splash of lemon juice for extra Mediterranean flair.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 425kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 85mg
