Chicken Tomato Pasta Recipe

Nothing beats the comforting combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a tangy tomato sauce when you're craving a quick and satisfying dinner. This Chicken Tomato Pasta recipe is easy to make, budget-friendly, and bursting with flavor.

this Recipe

I first made this dish during a busy week when I needed something quick yet hearty. It has since become a family favorite, gracing our table at least once a week. Whether you're feeding picky eaters or looking for a meal to impress, this recipe delivers every time.

Let’s dive in and learn how to make this irresistible pasta dish step by step!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tomato Pasta

This Chicken Tomato Pasta is guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Here’s why:

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in about 30 minutes.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Its comforting flavors appeal to kids and adults alike, making it ideal for family dinners.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, pantry staples, this meal is affordable without skimping on taste.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up ingredients to match what’s in your fridge or suit dietary preferences.

From its vibrant tomato sauce to its satisfying textures, every bite of this pasta feels like a warm hug. Now let’s gather our ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

This dish relies on a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that come together beautifully.

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal. Thighs offer more juiciness, while breasts are leaner.
• Pasta: Choose your favorite pasta shape! Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well for this recipe.
• Tomatoes: A can of crushed tomatoes provides the perfect tangy base for the sauce. If you prefer a chunkier texture, opt for diced tomatoes.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a bold, aromatic flavor to the sauce.
• Olive Oil: Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil to build the base flavors.
• Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley makes the perfect garnish, while dried oregano and thyme enhance the sauce’s depth.
• Heavy Cream: A splash of cream balances the acidity of the tomatoes and adds a silky richness to the dish.

Special Equipment

You’ll need a large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta. A wooden spoon is helpful for stirring the sauce, and a sharp knife ensures even chicken slices.

How to Make Chicken Tomato Pasta

This recipe is simple enough for beginners but delicious enough to impress! Follow these steps to make the perfect Chicken Tomato Pasta:

1. Prepare the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining and set the pasta aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
   Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Tomato Sauce
   In the same skillet, add another drizzle of olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and dried herbs like oregano and thyme. Let the sauce simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine Everything
   Add the sliced chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
5. Finish with Cream
   Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream until well combined. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve and Garnish
   Plate the pasta and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Storage Options

This Chicken Tomato Pasta is just as delicious the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the pasta and sauce together for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the sauce creamy.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative with these ideas:

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a veggie-packed dish.
• Protein Swaps: Use shrimp, turkey, or Italian sausage instead of chicken for a fun twist.
• Spice It Up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Goodness: Stir in shredded mozzarella or ricotta for a creamy, cheesy variation.
• Whole Grain or Gluten-Free: Swap in whole-grain or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.

No matter how you customize it, this Chicken Tomato Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the simplicity and deliciousness of a homemade pasta dish, and this Chicken Tomato Pasta hits all the right notes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share with loved ones, this recipe is a guaranteed winner.

Give it a try and enjoy the smiles around the table as everyone digs in!

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