Nigerian Jollof Spaghetti

Step 1

Boil salted water in a large pot. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, ~9 minutes. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.

Step 2

While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Season chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 3

Sear chicken 5 minutes per side without moving. Transfer to a plate.

Step 4

Add diced onion to the same skillet. Cook 3 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.

Step 5

Add garlic, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 6

Pour in crushed tomatoes and 1 cup reserved pasta water. Stir to combine.

Step 7

Slice the cooked chicken into bite-size pieces. Return to the skillet.

Step 8

Simmer sauce with chicken for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until reduced and glossy.

Step 9

Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce. Toss gently until evenly coated, 2 minutes.

Step 10

Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Serve hot.