Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti

Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti

In the world of quick, comforting meals, Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti stands out. It’s a hearty dish that combines the richness of tomatoes, the freshness of spinach, and the savory goodness of chicken. The result is a meal that is not only satisfying but also packed with essential nutrients. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or preparing for a weekend gathering, this dish checks all the boxes for flavor and ease.

Why You Should Love This Recipe

There’s so much to love about Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti. This recipe brings together fresh vegetables, lean protein, and pasta in a flavorful and nutritious combination. Here’s why it will be your next go-to:

• Rich Flavor Profile: The dish marries the sweet acidity of tomatoes with the earthiness of spinach and the rich taste of chicken. The result? A deliciously balanced pasta that satisfies every taste bud.

• Nutritious and Filling: With a high protein content from chicken and spinach, along with antioxidants from the tomatoes, this pasta packs a nutritional punch.

• Quick and Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a wholesome meal fast.

• Versatile: You can easily tweak the ingredients to make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian. It’s a flexible recipe that can fit a variety of dietary preferences.

Ingredients Breakdown

To make this dish, you’ll need simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients:

For the Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: Chicken is a lean protein that cooks quickly and takes on the flavors of the seasoning well. It’s tender and juicy when cooked properly, making it the star of this dish.

• Olive Oil: Olive oil is not just for sautéing; it also adds a mild, fruity flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning add depth to the chicken’s flavor.

For the Pasta

• Pasta (Penne or Spaghetti): Choose your favorite pasta! Penne or spaghetti works well, but feel free to swap it with a gluten-free or whole grain version for a healthier twist.

• Salted Water: Salt is crucial for seasoning the pasta while it cooks, ensuring it absorbs flavor.

For the Sauce

• Diced Tomatoes: This is the main component of the sauce. The acidity of the tomatoes balances the richness of the creamy sauce and adds natural sweetness to the dish.

• Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds savory depth to the sauce. You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

• Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk: Both options create a creamy texture that binds the sauce to the pasta. Use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.

• Spinach: Fresh spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals. It wilts down perfectly into the sauce, adding color and nutrients to the dish.

• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a final touch of richness and umami. You can substitute it with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a plant-based version.

Preparation Tips to Make Your Cooking Easy

Cooking Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is simple, but these tips will ensure that everything goes smoothly:

• Prep Ahead: Chop your onions, garlic, and chicken ahead of time to save minutes while cooking.

• Use Pre-washed Spinach: This will save you time in the kitchen, as you won’t need to wash or dry it yourself.

• Quick-Cook Pasta: Look for spaghetti that cooks in under 10 minutes to make the dish even quicker to prepare.

• Mise en Place: Lay out all your ingredients before you begin cooking. This will help you stay organized and make the cooking process much easier.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cooking the Pasta

• Bring Water to a Boil: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Once it’s boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions. The pasta should be al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes.

• Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, save about ½ cup of the cooking water. This starchy liquid will help adjust the consistency of the sauce later.

• Drain the Pasta: Drain the pasta and set it aside. You can toss it with a small amount of olive oil to keep it from sticking together while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Preparing the Chicken

• Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breast pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This ensures the chicken is well-seasoned throughout.

• Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

• Set Aside: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Preparing the Tomato and Spinach Sauce

• Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant.

• Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Let the mixture simmer for 8–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

• Add Spinach: Gradually stir in the fresh spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and softens.

Step 4: Combining Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

• Return the Chicken to the Skillet: Add the sliced chicken back into the skillet. Stir to combine with the tomato and spinach sauce, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.

• Add the Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

• Mix Thoroughly: Make sure every piece of pasta is coated with the creamy tomato sauce. This will ensure an even and flavorful bite with every forkful.

Serving and Garnishing Suggestions

Garnish for Extra Flavor

To elevate the presentation and flavor of your Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti, consider adding these simple garnishes:

• Grated Parmesan: A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese will add a rich, umami flavor to the dish.

• Fresh Basil or Parsley: A handful of fresh basil or parsley leaves adds a pop of green and enhances the overall aesthetic of your dish, while providing a fresh, aromatic flavor.

• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes sprinkled on top will complement the spicy, savory notes of the dish.

Serving Tips

This pasta can be served in a variety of ways to suit different occasions. Here are a few ideas:

• Main Course: Serve the dish in large bowls for a filling and satisfying meal. It pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner.

• Meal Prep: This dish makes great leftovers. If you’re meal prepping, portion it out into individual servings and store it in airtight containers. Reheat it for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week.

• Family-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for families. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and pleases even the pickiest eaters with its creamy and flavorful sauce.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional profile of the Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti, giving you an idea of what’s packed in each serving:

Health Benefits

• Rich in Protein: Chicken provides a lean source of protein that supports muscle growth and repair.

• Antioxidant-Rich: Tomatoes and spinach are loaded with antioxidants, such as lycopene (from tomatoes) and lutein (from spinach), both of which benefit heart health and vision.

• Nutrient-Dense: Spinach adds a boost of iron, calcium, and vitamin K, promoting bone health and overall well-being.

Recipe Variations and Customizations

This Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to make the recipe your own:

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

• Dairy-Free: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use coconut milk or almond milk in place of the cream to make the recipe dairy-free.

• Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based protein alternative.

• Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding cayenne pepper or using jalapeños in the sauce.

Conclusion on Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti

Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is a wholesome, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and fresh spinach, all brought together with perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or even for entertaining guests. The balance of flavors and nutrients makes it a well-rounded, satisfying dish that everyone will love.

Whether you’re making it for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to customize it based on your dietary preferences, spice levels, or ingredient availability. Enjoy!

Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti Recipe Card

Introduction

This Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is a vibrant, creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes. The rich, savory sauce brings a perfect balance of flavors and textures for a satisfying meal, ideal for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

• For the Pasta:

  • 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti (or gluten-free pasta)

  • Salt for the pasta water

• For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • Salt and pepper to taste

• For the Sauce:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices

  • 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

  • 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free option)

  • 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for dairy-free)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat

• For Garnish:

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

   • Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

   • Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

   • Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

   • Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and sauté onions for 2–3 minutes until translucent.

   • Add garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes.

   • Pour in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Simmer for 8–10 minutes.

   • Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted (2–3 minutes).

   • Lower heat and stir in heavy cream (or coconut milk), adjusting seasoning as needed.

   • Add grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast) and stir until melted and the sauce is creamy.

4. Combine Everything:

   • Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet.

   • Toss in the drained pasta, mixing everything together. Add reserved pasta water if needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.

5. Serve and Garnish:

   • Transfer the pasta to serving plates.

   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

   • Serve immediately.

Notes

• For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken with tofu or chickpeas.

• Gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta of your choice.

• Adjust spice levels by adding more red pepper flakes for a bolder kick.

• Make it dairy-free by using coconut milk and skipping Parmesan cheese, or replacing it with nutritional yeast.

• For meal prep, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days in the fridge.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Method: Sauté and Boil

• Cuisine: Italian

• Servings: 4 servings

• Calories: 450 kcal per serving

• Yield: 4 servings