Name: Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 ounces penne pasta; ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound chicken ((boneless and skinless)); ½ teaspoon salt ((or to taste)); ½ teaspoon pepper ((or to taste)); ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes; 6 medium tomatoes ((chopped)); 6 cloves garlic ((minced)); 10 ounces spinach ((fresh)); 1 cup Parmesan cheese ((freshly grated))

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As I stood in my kitchen, the rich aroma of the sautéed chicken mingling with the vibrant scent of spinach and tomatoes filled the air, I couldn’t help but smile. This is the magic of Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta. It’s a dish that brings together freshness and heartiness in a way that feels both comforting and joyous. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this pasta has a way of turning an ordinary meal into something special. I remember the first time I made it; I was trying to impress my friends, and each bite they took was met with delighted smiles. The combination of flavors in this dish is just delightful, and it always has me coming back for more.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
550 kcal

Protein:
35g g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20g g

Tools Used:
Le Creuset 3.75-Quart Braiser

What We Adore About This Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta

It’s a Flavor Explosion

First and foremost, the taste of Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta is simply irresistible. The fresh spinach adds a vibrant touch, while the chicken provides a protein punch. Add to that the sweet tomatoes and a hint of spice from the red pepper flakes, and you’ve got yourself a dish that will make your taste buds dance.

Healthy Ingredients

What I love most about this dish is how healthy it is. Packed with nutrients from the spinach and tomatoes, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that you can enjoy any day of the week. You can even add in extra veggies like asparagus or bell peppers for an even healthier twist.

Quick and Easy

In our busy lives, finding a meal that’s both quick and satisfying can be a challenge. Luckily, Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta is ready in no time! With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish isn’t just for everyday dinners; it’s also suitable for entertaining. Whether you have guests over or need to impress a date, Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta is sure to impress. The vibrant colors and delightful aromas will make you look like a culinary genius!

Leftovers are Fantastic

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, you’re in for a treat! This dish reheats beautifully, and I often find that the flavors deepen overnight, making the next day’s lunch just as enjoyable as the first meal. You can easily store it in an airtight container, and enjoy it for a couple of days.

Versatile and Adaptable

Another wonderful aspect of Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta is its versatility. You can substitute different pastas, like gluten-free options, or even try using zoodles for a low-carb meal. Feel free to customize it to your liking!

What You’ll Need for Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta

When it comes to simple yet flavorful dishes, the ingredients make all the difference. In the case of Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta, every component has a role to play. From the satisfying heartiness of the chicken to the freshness of the spinach, these ingredients work together harmoniously to create a meal that’s as delicious as it is nutritious.

12 ounces penne pasta (or any small shaped pasta): This forms the base of the dish, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes: These add a deep, rich flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
3 tablespoons olive oil: A staple in cooking, it adds richness and helps sauté the chicken.
1 pound chicken (boneless and skinless): This provides the protein, making the dish filling.
½ teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the dish.
½ teaspoon pepper: Adds a mild heat that pairs well with the other flavors.
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: For those who like a little kick!
6 medium tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes provide moisture and a burst of freshness.
6 cloves garlic: This aromatic adds depth and flavor.
10 ounces spinach: Fresh spinach adds color, nutrients, and a lovely texture.
1 cup Parmesan cheese: Grated for a final touch of creaminess and flavor.

Making Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta

Cooking Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta is a delightful experience that brings all the enticing smells and flavors together. Follow these simple steps to create a dish your family will love.

Cook the pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it al dente according to package instructions. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking. Once done, drain and set aside.
Cook the chicken: In the meantime, take a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, followed by the chicken pieces. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center. It’s important to stir occasionally for even cooking.
Finish cooking: Once the chicken is ready, add the chopped tomatoes, minced garlic, and spinach to the skillet. Cook everything together for another 3 minutes or until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften slightly. This mixture should be colorful and fragrant.
Combine pasta and sauce: Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Add the drained pasta to the skillet, along with half a cup of the Parmesan cheese. Gently toss everything until well combined and heated through. The cheese will melt slightly, creating a creamy texture.
Finish and serve: Drizzle a little more olive oil over the pasta, then sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately, allowing everyone to enjoy the beautiful presentation and inviting aromas!

Things Worth Knowing

Tip for Cooking Pasta: Always add salt to your boiling water before adding the pasta. This helps to flavor the noodles from the inside out.
Cooking Chicken: When cooking chicken, it’s important to let it sear without moving it around too much. This ensures a nice golden crust forms.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spinach and tomatoes whenever possible. It makes all the difference in flavor and nutrition.
Cheese Options: If you prefer a stronger flavor, consider using aged Parmesan or a mix of cheeses!

Change It Up

There are countless ways to modify Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta to suit your taste preferences. Here are some fun suggestions to get you started:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to do so before adding cheese. Freeze in containers for up to three months, then reheat and add cheese later.
Pairing: Pair this with a fresh garden salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini for more nutrition.
Gluten-free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this meal suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

Serving This Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta

Serving Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta is just as fun as making it! Here are a few ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Garnish: Top the dish with fresh basil or parsley to add a pop of color and flavor.
Side Dishes: Serve with a light arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing complement to the warm pasta.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual family dinners, entertaining guests, or even meal prepping for the week.
Seasonal Pairings: In summer, pair with a chilled white wine or lemonade; in fall, consider a warm bread on the side.
Presentation: Serve in a large bowl for family-style dining, or plate individually for a more formal look.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in airtight containers; this pasta can be enjoyed cold in salads the next day!

FAQ

Absolutely! One of the great things about Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta is its versatility. You can easily add or substitute various vegetables according to your taste preferences. Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms to enhance the flavor and nutritional value. Feel free to get creative!

Storing leftovers of Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta is quite simple. Allow the dish to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to help loosen the sauce.

Yes! If you need a gluten-free option for Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta, simply substitute the regular penne pasta with gluten-free pasta made from brown rice or other gluten-free grains. The flavors and textures will remain just as delicious, making it a great alternative for gluten-sensitive individuals.

If you’re looking to add a creamier texture to your Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta, you can incorporate a splash of cream or even some cream cheese into the sauce. Additionally, using a bit of the starchy pasta water during the mixing process can help achieve that creamy consistency without compromising the flavors.

Conclusion

Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that balances flavors and nutrition perfectly. It’s not only easy to prepare but also impressive to serve, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the wonderful combination of textures and tastes. Your family and friends will surely thank you for it!

Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta combines the freshness of spinach, the heartiness of chicken, and the richness of sun-dried tomatoes for a tantalizing meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Make it tonight!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

Le Creuset 3.75-Quart Braiser

Ingredients

12 ounces penne pasta
⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound chicken (boneless and skinless)
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
6 medium tomatoes (chopped)
6 cloves garlic (minced)
10 ounces spinach (fresh)
1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta al dente, according to package instructions.
Cook the chicken: In the meantime, add the sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, chicken pieces, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to a large skillet, and cook over medium heat for 5 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink.
Finish cooking: Add the chopped tomatoes, garlic, and spinach to the skillet and cook for another 3 minutes or until the spinach wilts a little.
Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with ½ cup of the Parmesan cheese and toss everything together well.
Finish and serve: Drizzle some good olive oil over the pasta and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

Tip 1: You can use a scoop of pasta water to help with the creaminess of your sauce if your pasta gets too dry.
Tip 2: Pack this dish with other veggies such as asparagus, broccoli, peppers, or even mushrooms.
Tip 3: Make this chicken pasta gluten-free by using gluten-free brown-rice penne pasta instead of regular penne.
Tip 4: Store this pasta dish in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tip 5: Reheat the chicken pasta in the microwave or in a skillet with a couple of tablespoons of water to loosen the sauce and pasta.