Chicken Tomato Pasta Recipe

There’s something irresistible about the combination of juicy chicken, tangy tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta. This Chicken Tomato Pasta is a one-pan wonder that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe while searching for a quick, wholesome dinner to whip up after a long day. With just a handful of pantry staples, it quickly became a weeknight favorite in my household. Let’s dive into what makes this dish a must-try!

Why You'll Love This Chicken Tomato Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this easy, flavorful pasta dish. Packed with savory goodness, it’s a recipe that’ll keep you coming back for more.

First and foremost, it’s incredibly quick and easy. With a total cook time of just 30 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you’re short on time but craving something hearty.

The ingredients are simple and affordable, featuring staples like pasta, chicken, and tomatoes that you likely already have in your kitchen. Plus, you can feed a family of four for under $20 – talk about budget-friendly!

Another reason to love this recipe? Its versatility. You can customize it to suit your preferences or to use up whatever’s in your fridge, from fresh spinach to shredded Parmesan.

Finally, this dish offers a restaurant-quality flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen. The balance of juicy chicken, sweet-tangy tomatoes, and al dente pasta makes every bite a delight.

Ready to get started? Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Chicken Tomato Pasta lies in its simplicity, with each ingredient playing a key role in creating its signature flavor.

Pasta is the backbone of the dish. I recommend using penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti, as their shapes hold the sauce beautifully. Whole wheat or gluten-free options work just as well for dietary preferences.

For the chicken, I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook quickly and stay tender when seared properly. You could also use thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.

Canned diced tomatoes provide the base for the sauce. Look for a brand that offers fire-roasted or Italian-seasoned tomatoes for an added depth of flavor. If you have fresh tomatoes, those work wonderfully too – just dice them finely.

Garlic and onion bring an aromatic, savory depth to the sauce. Fresh garlic is a must here, as it infuses the dish with a bold, irresistible aroma.

A touch of heavy cream or half-and-half ties the sauce together, giving it a creamy texture that complements the tomatoes. If you’re dairy-free, coconut cream is a great alternative.

Finally, you’ll need a few pantry staples: olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Don’t forget the Parmesan cheese for garnish – it takes the dish to the next level!

How To Make This Chicken Tomato Pasta

Making this dish is a breeze, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. Here’s how it all comes together:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.
2. Prepare the chicken: While the pasta cooks, cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning.
3. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
4. Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion for 2-3 minutes until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Build the sauce: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Add the reserved pasta water and a splash of heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Combine and serve: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until evenly coated in the sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh basil.

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for a last-minute dinner!

Storage Options

Have leftovers? No problem! This Chicken Tomato Pasta stores beautifully and is just as delicious the next day.

For refrigeration, place the pasta in an airtight container and store it for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

If you’d like to freeze it, transfer the cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so don’t hesitate to get creative! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for an extra dose of nutrients.
• Swap the protein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, turkey sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Spice it up: Love heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño to the sauce.
• Cheese it up: Stir in some shredded mozzarella or ricotta for an ultra-creamy finish.
• Make it dairy-free: Swap the heavy cream for unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream, and omit the Parmesan.

Experiment with these ideas, or create your own variation – the possibilities are endless!

This Chicken Tomato Pasta is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. With its simple ingredients, rich flavors, and quick prep time, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself turning to again and again. Give it a try tonight and see why it’s a favorite in my kitchen!

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