This Chicken Creamy Tomato Pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! It combines juicy chicken and rich, creamy tomato sauce with tender pasta for a comforting meal.
You’ll love how quickly it comes together—perfect for busy nights. I always make extra, so I can enjoy it for lunch the next day. Trust me, it tastes even better! 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: I love using penne because its shape holds the creamy sauce so well. If you need a gluten-free option, feel free to swap in gluten-free pasta or choose another type like fusilli or farfalle.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is my go-to for this recipe. Chicken thighs could be a great alternative, giving you a richer flavor. You can also use leftover cooked chicken to save time!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk. Just remember that it might change the creaminess a bit.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition. If you don’t have any, kale or arugula can work too! They’ll make the dish deliciously different.
Diced Tomatoes: You can use fresh tomatoes chopped up in place of canned ones if you prefer. Just cook them longer to get a good sauce consistency.
How Do You Make the Creamy Sauce Smooth and Flavorful?
Creating the creamy sauce is key to this recipe, and it’s easier than you think! Here’s how to do it right:
- After cooking the garlic and onion, add the diced tomatoes with their juices. Let them simmer for a bit—this helps reduce the liquid and intensify the flavor.
- When you add the heavy cream and Parmesan, stir continuously. This keeps the sauce from breaking and ensures everything blends smoothly.
- Don’t rush! Lower the heat once you add the cream to prevent it from curdling, and stir until it’s all mixed and creamy.
By following these steps, you’ll create a rich and delicious sauce that perfectly coats your pasta. Enjoy your cooking!
Chicken Creamy Tomato Pasta With Tender
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 20 minutes making the sauce and combining everything together. It’s a quick and tasty meal for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside for later.
2. Searing the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season your chicken pieces with salt and black pepper, then carefully add them to the hot skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Once finished, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sautéing Aromatics:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. If needed, add a tad more olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 3-4 minutes, until they are fragrant and softened.
4. Making the Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the diced tomatoes along with their juices to the skillet. If you’re using Italian seasoning, sprinkle that in too. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly and enhance the flavor.
5. Creamy Perfection:
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens—your sauce will be rich and delicious!
6. Combining Ingredients:
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the fresh spinach. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and the chicken is warmed through.
7. Finishing Touches:
Toss the drained penne pasta into the sauce, making sure every piece is coated evenly. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for a little heat if you like.
8. Serving Up!
Serve your creamy chicken tomato pasta immediately in bowls. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley for a beautiful touch!
Enjoy this hearty and creamy pasta dish that warms the soul. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the quick method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Chicken Creamy Tomato Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of cream or broth to help revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for protein. Be sure to sauté them until they are crispy for added texture. You can also enhance the recipe with more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers!
What Can I Serve This Pasta With?
This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a lighter, balanced meal.
