“`html
If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, juicy chicken pieces mingling with fresh spinach and bright diced tomatoes, all swimming in a luscious creamy sauce that clings perfectly to every bite of pasta. It’s a beautiful balance of vibrant colors, comforting textures, and savory flavors that come together effortlessly for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a starring role in building layers of flavor and creating a dish that’s both wholesome and indulgent. From the hearty pasta base to the fresh vegetables and creamy finish, every component is essential to the final experience.
- 12 ounces (340g) pasta (penne, farfalle, or your choice): Choose your favorite shape to soak up the rich sauce perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This brings a fruity richness that helps brown the chicken beautifully.
- 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender chicken is your protein powerhouse here.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance every flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that adds herby warmth without any fuss.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings that irresistible aromatics that lifts the whole dish.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juice: Adds a juicy, tangy brightness that keeps things lively.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped: Fresh greens give a pop of color and a nutrient boost.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The secret to a silky, rich sauce that makes this pasta utterly comforting.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnishing: Adds a salty, nutty depth and melts into the sauce for creaminess.
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnishing (optional): A fresh, herbaceous touch that brightens each serving beautifully.
How to Make Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente—just tender but still with a slight bite. Drain well and set aside. This step lays the foundation by preparing the perfect texture to carry the creamy tomato spinach sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
In a spacious skillet, warm the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and Italian seasoning. This seasoning blend infuses the chicken with a subtle herby kick. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Getting a nice sear here adds wonderful flavor and texture.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Lower the heat to medium and toss the minced garlic into the skillet with the chicken. Stir and cook for just about a minute until you can smell that irresistible garlicky aroma filling the kitchen. Garlic is one of those ingredients that instantly deepens the flavor profile of your sauce.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes
Pour in the entire can of diced tomatoes, juice included. Stir everything so the tomatoes blend with the garlic and chicken juices. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer—a perfect way to meld the bright tomato flavor and start forming your sauce base.
Step 5: Wilt the Spinach
Next, add the roughly chopped fresh spinach straight into the skillet. Cook it for about two minutes until it wilts and softens, releasing a subtle earthiness that complements the tangy tomatoes and rich chicken beautifully.
Step 6: Stir in the Heavy Cream
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer again. This step is what transforms the tomato sauce into a luxuriously creamy, silky coating that clings to every piece of pasta and chicken.
Step 7: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta straight into the skillet with the sauce and toss gently. This ensures every noodle gets coated in the delicious creamy tomato and spinach mixture, marrying all the flavors together harmoniously.
Step 8: Melt in the Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts fully into the sauce. This cheese adds a gentle saltiness and adds to the sauce’s creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed to make it just right.
Step 9: Rest to Meld Flavors
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the pasta rest for a couple of minutes. This pause gives time for all the flavors to mingle and deepen beautifully — almost like letting a fine soup settle before serving.
Step 10: Serve and Garnish
Serve your Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe in warm bowls, topped with extra Parmesan cheese for an added hit of umami and fresh basil leaves if you have them on hand. The basil adds a burst of freshness that lifts the entire dish perfectly.
How to Serve Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese is always a winner here, giving a final salty punch and lovely texture contrast. Bright green basil leaves add a fresh, aromatic lift and make the dish look extra inviting. If you want a little heat, a light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes pairs well too.
Side Dishes
This meal shines best when paired with something simple and green such as a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is another perfect companion, ideal for soaking up every last bit of that creamy tomato sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming family-style presentation, serve the pasta directly from the skillet placed in the center of the table. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan right before serving to delight guests visually and aromatically. Alternatively, portion the pasta into decorative bowls or pasta plates to highlight its vibrant colors and rich sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to deepen overnight, making your reheats even tastier.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers, but keep in mind the fresh spinach may darken and the texture can slightly change. Freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat your pasta gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if the sauce thickens too much. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to revive the silky sauce texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and stay juicy. Just adjust cooking time slightly to make sure they’re fully cooked.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne, farfalle, or rigatoni work wonderfully because their shapes hold the creamy sauce well, but feel free to use whatever pasta you prefer.
Is this dish spicy?
This Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe is mild and comforting by default, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use a non-dairy cream substitute and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative to keep it creamy and flavorful without lactose.
How do I make this recipe more budget-friendly?
Using frozen spinach instead of fresh and chicken thighs instead of breasts can save money without sacrificing taste or quality.
Final Thoughts
There is something so effortlessly satisfying about a good pasta dish that combines fresh vegetables, creamy sauce, and tender chicken—this Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe captures that magic perfectly. It’s approachable, quick, and full of flavor, making it an instant favorite you’ll want to make again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with every creamy, tomato-kissed bite just like I did!
“`
