In a small bowl, add chicken, salt, pepper, and curry powder. And toss and massage until the spices coat the chicken evenly. Set aside to marinate for 10-20 minutes.
Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil over medium heat. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Heat 2 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. Arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer, allowing space between pieces for even cooking. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until thoroughly cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until onions are soft and translucent. You can adjust the heat to low if needed, to avoid the onions from being browned.
Stir in marinara sauce, paprika, cayenne pepper, and water. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add cooked pasta, cooked chicken, ground cumin, and cilantro to the skillet. Toss well until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Serve the chicken curry pasta hot, garnished with extra cilantro if desired.
Notes
Use chicken breast, thighs, or tenderloins; cut into small pieces for better flavor absorption, and swap olive oil with neutral oil or coconut oil if preferred.
Adjust the spice level easily by reducing or skipping cayenne and black pepper; curry powder and paprika add flavor without much heat.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days, keeping the pasta fresh and ready for quick meals.
Freeze in portioned, freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator or defrost gently in the microwave.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to loosen the sauce, stirring until warmed through.