Spaghetti with Chicken and Tomato Sauce

A comforting dish that's all about bringing out the vibrant flavors of the tomatoes and the succulence of the chicken. Perfect for a busy evening!

Ingredients

• ½ pound spaghetti
• 2 cups pasta sauce (preferably low-sodium)
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
   • Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn!).

3. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

   • Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the garlic.
   • Pour in the pasta sauce, and add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
   • Stir and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Add the Spaghetti:

   • Toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce mixture.
   • If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

5. Serve!

   • Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or even red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
   • Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if available.

Flavor Profile

This dish features a beautiful balance of savory and aromatic notes from the garlic and herbs, complemented by the richness of the tomato sauce and the tender chicken. It’s packed with comforting flavors that will warm you right up!

Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it goes! If you have any questions or need any alterations, just let me know!