Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta: A Creamy Dream

Welcome to a culinary adventure where comfort food meets vibrant flavors! Today, we’re diving headfirst into a creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta recipe that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. This dish is more than just pasta; it’s a symphony of textures and tastes, a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend gathering. Imagine tender chicken, bursting with juicy tomatoes and fresh spinach, all swimming in a luscious, creamy sauce and tossed with your favorite pasta. Sounds heavenly, doesn’t it? Let’s embark on this flavorful journey together!

This isn’t your average pasta recipe; it’s a culinary masterpiece that elevates simple ingredients to a whole new level. The vibrant red of the tomatoes, the verdant green of the spinach, and the golden brown of the perfectly seared chicken create a visual feast before you even take your first bite. But it’s the incredible balance of flavors – the savory chicken, the tangy tomatoes, the earthy spinach, and the rich, creamy sauce – that truly sets this Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta apart. It’s a dish that satisfies both your cravings for comfort and your desire for something exciting and new. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe

This Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s designed for convenience and maximum flavor. Here’s why you’ll fall in love:

• One-Pan Wonder (Almost!): Minimize cleanup with minimal dirty dishes. Most of the cooking happens in a single skillet, making post-dinner cleanup a breeze. This is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal without the lengthy cooking time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy sauce, savory chicken, juicy tomatoes, and earthy spinach creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, spices, or cheeses to personalize this recipe. Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra boost of flavor. Experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or mozzarella.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is kid-approved! The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a hit with even the pickiest eaters. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables.
• Leftover Friendly: This pasta is just as delicious the next day! It’s perfect for meal prepping, saving you time and effort during the week.
• Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are readily available and affordable, making this a delicious and economical meal choice.

Why You Should Try This Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe

Beyond the deliciousness, this Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta offers a range of benefits that make it a stand-out choice:

• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from the chicken, vitamins from the spinach, and antioxidants from the tomatoes, this dish provides a balanced and nutritious meal.
• Satisfying and Filling: The combination of pasta, chicken, and vegetables creates a satisfying and filling meal that will keep you feeling full and energized.
• Perfect for Meal Prepping: Make a large batch on the weekend and enjoy delicious lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Improves Cooking Skills: This recipe is a great way to improve your cooking skills, especially if you’re new to cooking pasta dishes. The step-by-step instructions make it easy to follow, and you’ll learn valuable techniques along the way.
• Great for Impressing Guests: This dish is impressive enough to serve to guests, yet simple enough to make without stress. It’s a surefire crowd-pleaser.
• Adaptable to Dietary Needs: With a few simple substitutions, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit various dietary needs, such as gluten-free or vegetarian diets. We’ll explore these variations later.
• A Delicious Alternative: Tired of the same old pasta dishes? This recipe offers a refreshing twist on classic pasta, introducing exciting new flavors and textures.

Ingredients and Utensils for Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta

Gathering the right ingredients and utensils is crucial for a successful cooking experience. Let’s ensure we have everything we need to create this amazing Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor. Cutting them into 1-inch cubes ensures even cooking.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides healthy fats and a delicious flavor base for sautéing.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce. Yellow or white onions work best.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for aromatic flavor. Freshly minced garlic offers the most potent flavor.
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The foundation of our delicious sauce. Look for high-quality crushed tomatoes with minimal added ingredients.
• 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry: Adds nutrients and vibrant green color. Make sure to squeeze out excess water to prevent a watery sauce.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Enhances the flavor and creates a creamy texture. Low-sodium broth is recommended to control the salt content.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. For a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty flavor and enhances the creamy texture. Freshly grated Parmesan tastes best.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of other ingredients. Adjust to your taste preference.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle spice. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended.
• 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape): Choose your favorite pasta shape. Penne and rotini work well with this sauce due to their ability to hold it.
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional): Adds a fresh, aromatic touch.

Utensils:

• Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
• Large skillet (12-inch or larger): For cooking the chicken and sauce. A non-stick skillet is recommended for easier cleanup.
• Cutting board: For chopping the onion and garlic.
• Sharp knife: For chopping the onion, garlic, and chicken.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measuring of ingredients.
• Colander: For draining the pasta.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce.
• Tongs: For handling the chicken.
• Serving bowls: For serving the pasta.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta

Let’s create this delicious Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta together, step-by-step:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside. Tip: Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining, in case you need to thin the sauce later.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. **Important:** Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to prevent foodborne illness. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant. **Tip:** Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the onions in batches to ensure even browning.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, thawed and squeezed spinach, chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. **Tip:** Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.
5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the sauce. Stir gently to combine and heat through. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency. **Tip:** Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
6. Serve: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves, if desired. **Tip:** A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top adds a nice finishing touch.

Tips and Variations for Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta

This Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Different Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like feta, mozzarella, or ricotta for a unique flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Vegetarian/Vegan Adaptation: Replace the chicken with chickpeas, lentils, or firm tofu for a vegetarian or vegan version. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and consider nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Creamy Alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk. For a richer flavor, try using cream cheese instead of heavy cream.
• Make it a Bake: Transfer the cooked pasta and sauce to a greased baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown. This makes a great make-ahead option.
• Avoid a Watery Sauce: Ensure the spinach is thoroughly thawed and squeezed dry before adding it to the sauce.

Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta

This Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits.

(Note: The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. The following is an approximate estimation.)

Approximate Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: Approximately 450-550
• Protein: Approximately 30-40g
• Fat: Approximately 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients:

• Chicken: Excellent source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Spinach: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants.
• Tomatoes: Packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease.
• Parmesan Cheese: Provides calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth.

FAQs

Conclusion

This Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta recipe is a true testament to the magic of simple ingredients transformed into a culinary masterpiece. Its ease of preparation, incredible flavor, and nutritional value make it a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation. We hope you’ve enjoyed this detailed guide and are inspired to create your own delicious version of this comforting and satisfying dish. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us in the comments below, and let us know how you personalized your Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta! You can also share your photos on Pinterest – we’d love to see them! Check out our Pinterest page for more recipe inspiration!

Ready to embark on this flavorful journey? Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think! Don’t hesitate to share this recipe with your friends and family – they’ll thank you for it! And for more delicious recipes, be sure to check out our other blogs on Recipesamaya.com, such as our Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake or our Lemon Blueberry Muffins!

Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta

A quick and easy weeknight dinner recipe featuring tender chicken, spinach, and a creamy tomato sauce, all tossed with your favorite pasta.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American, Italian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 1 medium Onion Chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic Minced
• 1 28 ounce can Crushed tomatoes
• 1 10 ounce package Frozen chopped spinach Thawed and squeezed dry
• 1 cup Chicken broth
• 1/2 cup Heavy cream
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese Grated
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
• 8 ounces Pasta Penne, rotini, or your favorite shape
• Fresh basil leaves For garnish, optional

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Large Pot

Method

 

Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
3. Add onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, spinach, chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce. Stir to combine and heat through.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves, if desired.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.