Chicken Spaghetti "Norma"
Chicken Spaghetti Norma features tender chicken drumsticks simmered in a savory tomato and sofrito sauce, complemented by fresh cilantro, creating a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy 4-quart pot, sauté garlic in oil for 3 minutes.
- Add chicken drumsticks to the pot.
- Simmer until the chicken is browned, turning frequently.
- After 10 minutes, add tomato paste, sofrito, cilantro, and water to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then cover tightly and cook on low for 40 minutes.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the pot, mix well, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the chicken drumsticks in the olive oil, garlic, and sofrito mixture for a few hours prior to cooking. If you don’t have Goya sofrito, you can substitute it with a mix of diced bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Adjust the garlic to your taste, as it can be quite potent. This dish can also be made with chicken thighs or breasts for a different texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Spaghetti 'Norma' with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. You might also consider pairing it with a light white wine, which complements the flavors beautifully. For a twist, try adding grated Parmesan cheese on top, or browse more chicken recipes to find other delicious options.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken Spaghetti 'Norma' can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it seems too thick. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Spaghetti "Norma" contains roughly 472 calories, with 12g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (79% of the Daily Value), potassium (53% of the Daily Value), and iron (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or breasts instead of drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time as needed; breasts may cook faster and should be monitored to avoid drying out.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the spaghetti when you're ready to serve for a quick and easy meal.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, for a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, and use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).