Chicken Tomato Pasta Recipe

There’s something comforting about a warm bowl of Chicken Tomato Pasta, with its vibrant, tangy tomato sauce and tender, juicy chicken pieces. This dish is the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor, making it a weeknight hero in my home.

I first made this recipe on a whim, pulling together pantry staples and leftover chicken. To my surprise, it turned into an instant hit, with my family asking for seconds. If you’re craving a wholesome, hearty pasta that’s easy to make, this one’s for you.

Let’s dive in and see what makes this recipe so special!

Why You'll Love This Chicken Tomato Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with a recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious. Chicken Tomato Pasta is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly satisfying meal.

First, it’s incredibly quick to make. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a complete, flavorful dish on the table, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

The tomato sauce is the star of this dish – rich, tangy, and perfectly seasoned. It pairs beautifully with tender chicken, creating a balance of protein and flavor that’s hard to resist. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and you’re in pasta heaven.

This recipe is also wonderfully versatile. You can use fresh tomatoes or canned, depending on what you have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or add in extra vegetables for a nutrient boost.

Lastly, it’s family-friendly. The flavors are mild enough for kids but robust enough to please adults, making it a meal everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple, accessible ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why they work so well together:

• Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, depending on your preference. Breasts are lean and cook quickly, while thighs add a slightly richer flavor.
• Pasta: Spaghetti, penne, or fusilli are all excellent choices. Their shapes hold the sauce well, ensuring each bite is flavorful. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works beautifully too!
• Tomatoes: You can use canned crushed tomatoes for convenience or fresh Roma tomatoes for a lighter, fresher flavor. Both options deliver a delicious sauce.
• Garlic and Onion: These aromatics form the base of the sauce, adding depth and sweetness. Finely chop them to release their full flavor.
• Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil is essential for sautéing the chicken and building the sauce’s rich flavor.
• Herbs and Spices: Basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes bring an Italian-inspired flair to the dish. Use fresh herbs if you have them for a burst of brightness.
• Chicken Broth: Adds a savory depth to the tomato sauce, tying everything together. Vegetable broth works well as a substitute.

You’ll also need a large skillet or pot for cooking the chicken and pasta together seamlessly.

How To Make This Chicken Tomato Pasta

This Chicken Tomato Pasta recipe comes together in a few simple steps, all in one pot for easy cleanup. Here’s how to make it:

1. Cook the Chicken: Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Sear them until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil and toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the chicken for extra flavor.
3. Build the Sauce: Stir in your crushed tomatoes and a splash of chicken broth. Add dried herbs like basil and oregano, along with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, boil your pasta in a separate pot of salted water until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
5. Combine and Serve: Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add them back into the sauce. Toss in the cooked pasta, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir everything together until well-coated.
6. Finish with Garnishes: Serve your pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil.

Dinner is served!

Storage Options

Leftovers of this Chicken Tomato Pasta are just as delicious the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigerator: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits!
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to suit your preferences and pantry. Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add more veggies like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the sauce.
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella or ricotta cheese for a creamy, cheesy sauce.
• Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding diced bell peppers, broccoli florets, or cherry tomatoes. These add both color and flavor.
• Protein Alternatives: Swap the chicken for shrimp, Italian sausage, or tofu for a different protein twist.
• Spice It Up: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier version.

Feel free to get creative – this recipe is a great base for experimenting!

With its rich tomato sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this Chicken Tomato Pasta is a meal that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing dinner guests, it’s a dish that never disappoints. Give it a try tonight!

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