Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, vibrant dish that combines the comforting flavors of creamy pasta with the freshness of garden vegetables and tender chicken, this Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine penne or farfalle pasta lovingly coated in a luscious tomato and cream sauce, brightened by fresh spinach and perfectly seasoned chicken bites. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate but comes together with minimal fuss, making it ideal for weekday dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so delightful and how you can make it your new favorite meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity, using straightforward ingredients that bring out incredible flavor and texture. Each element plays a crucial role, from the tender chicken adding protein, to the fresh spinach bringing a burst of color and nutrients, to the creamy sauce that ties everything together.

• 12 ounces pasta (penne or farfalle): Choose your favorite shape; penne and farfalle hold onto the sauce beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For browning the chicken and building the base of flavor.
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing flavors.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that adds depth to the chicken.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic gives the dish an irresistible aroma and subtle punch.
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice: The heart of the sauce, offering vibrant color and tang.
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped: Adds a fresh, tender element and a pop of green.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Brings richness and smoothness to the sauce.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish that melts perfectly into the sauce.
• Fresh basil leaves (optional): For garnishing, adding a fragrant, fresh touch.

How to Make Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by getting your pasta cooked just right. Boil it in salted water until al dente—that perfect slight firmness that holds up when tossed with the sauce. Once done, drain and set it aside while you work on the flavorful sauce and chicken.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cooking the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through will give you those tasty caramelized bits that add so much character to this dish.

Step 3: Add Garlic for Aroma

Next, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just about a minute. This quick step releases the garlic’s wonderful fragrance and deepens the sauce’s flavor base without burning it.

Step 4: Simmer with Tomatoes

Pour the diced tomatoes, juice and all, into the skillet. Stir to combine, then let the mixture come to a gentle simmer. This is where your sauce begins to take shape, melding the savory chicken with the bright acidity of the tomatoes.

Step 5: Wilt the Spinach

Add the freshly chopped spinach right into the skillet and cook just until it wilts down, which takes about two minutes. This not only introduces a lovely splash of green but also infuses the sauce with fresh, slightly earthy undertones.

Step 6: Stir in the Cream

Pour in the heavy cream and bring the sauce back to a gentle simmer. The cream mellow out the acidity of the tomatoes, resulting in a silky, luscious sauce that clings beautifully to every piece of pasta.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add your cooked pasta directly into the skillet and toss well to coat every piece with that rich, creamy sauce. This is your moment to make sure everything blends thoughtfully for maximum flavor in every bite.

Step 8: Add Parmesan Cheese

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir until it melts smoothly into the sauce. This step elevates the dish by adding a salty depth and a cozy, cheesy texture that’s just irresistible.

Step 9: Let the Flavors Meld

Remove the skillet from heat and let your pasta rest for a couple of minutes—this quiet time allows the flavors to marry perfectly, making every forkful taste balanced and satisfying.

Step 10: Serve and Garnish

Dish your Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe into bowls and finish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves if you like. The basil adds a pop of freshness and color that makes the dish as beautiful as it is delicious.

How to Serve Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can transform your dish beautifully. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a lovely salty contrast, while fresh basil leaves bring a touch of herbal brightness. For a little extra texture, a handful of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of good quality olive oil can be superb finishing touches.

Side Dishes

This pasta stands well on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or crusty baguette also work wonderfully to mop up the creamy sauce, making the meal even more indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party or special occasion, present the pasta in individual shallow bowls or small cast-iron skillets for rustic charm. Layering a bit of fresh spinach on the bottom before adding pasta can add height and drama. A drizzle of balsamic glaze around the plate’s perimeter can offer an elegant, tangy contrast that beautifully complements the flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic next-day meal. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to keep it fresh.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the pasta, it’s best to do so without fresh spinach to preserve texture. Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

Reheat your pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickened too much. Microwave reheating works too but stirring occasionally helps it heat evenly and prevents drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring a bit more fat and flavor, and remain juicy during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked through before adding tomatoes.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan substitute. This keeps the sauce creamy while catering to dairy-free diets.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Definitely! You can cook the chicken and pasta a day ahead and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, quickly warm the sauce and combine everything, making dinner a breeze on busy nights.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne, farfalle, or rigatoni are excellent choices because their shapes hold onto the creamy tomato sauce beautifully. But feel free to use any pasta you have on hand—it’s all about what you enjoy!

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic or stir in a dash of hot sauce into the tomato and cream sauce to give it a pleasant kick without overpowering the other flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a satisfying, flavorful dinner that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Its creamy tomato sauce, tender chicken, and fresh spinach come together in perfect harmony, making every bite a celebration of comfort and freshness. I can’t wait for you to try it—it’s truly one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again, sharing the magic with your loved ones.

Print