Embrace Island Flavor with this Rasta Pasta and Chicken Delight

Introduction

Rasta pasta is a delicious Jamaican-inspired dish that bursts with both flavor and color. The combination of creamy pasta and flavorful jerk chicken is a true celebration of the vibrant Caribbean cuisine. This recipe provides a fusion of traditional Italian pasta with the exotic and spicy flavors of Jamaica. Let’s embark on this culinary journey and bring the taste of the Caribbean to your table.

Ingredients

For this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, toss the diced chicken with jerk seasoning until evenly coated.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Rasta Pasta Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, and onion. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in the coconut milk, chicken broth, tomato paste, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce and stir to combine.
2. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss until everything is well coated with the sauce.
3. Simmer for a few minutes to heat the pasta through.
4. Once ready, garnish with chopped green onions.
5. Serve the delicious Rasta Pasta and Chicken hot and enjoy!

FAQ

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely get creative with the choice of pasta. While penne works wonderfully, you can also experiment with other shapes such as fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle to add a unique twist to the dish.

Is there a substitute for jerk seasoning?

If you don’t have jerk seasoning on hand, you can create a homemade version using a blend of spices such as thyme, allspice, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and a hint of brown sugar for sweetness. Alternatively, you can use any other spicy seasoning that you prefer.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the chicken and instead incorporate a variety of colorful veggies such as zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms to create a delightful vegetarian version of Rasta Pasta.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of jerk seasoning and adjust the level of cayenne pepper or omit it entirely. Additionally, adding a splash of coconut milk can help balance out the heat.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within a couple of days for the best flavor.

With its tantalizing flavors and vibrant colors, this Rasta Pasta and Chicken recipe is a delightful way to embrace the exotic and spicy tastes of the Caribbean. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a special dinner, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy with each tantalizing bite.