Chicken Tomato Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Chicken Tomato Pasta simmering away on the stove. This dish is a perfect balance of tender chicken, tangy tomatoes, and al dente pasta, all brought together with a hint of creamy richness. It's the kind of recipe that feels indulgent yet comes together effortlessly.

I first discovered this recipe while searching for a quick way to use up pantry staples and leftover chicken. It quickly became a household favorite, loved for its simplicity and crowd-pleasing flavors. Whether you're cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!

Why You'll Love This Chicken Tomato Pasta

Get ready to discover your new go-to dinner recipe. Chicken Tomato Pasta is a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a hearty, satisfying meal on the table—even on your busiest nights. The minimal prep work means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

The flavor combination is unbeatable. The tangy sweetness of the tomatoes pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and the creamy sauce, creating a dish that's rich but not overwhelming. Every bite is packed with comforting, well-balanced flavors.

It’s also a budget-friendly option. Using simple ingredients like pasta, canned tomatoes, and chicken means you don’t have to break the bank to create a restaurant-quality meal.

Lastly, this recipe is highly adaptable. Whether you want to swap out proteins, experiment with different pasta shapes, or add your favorite veggies, this dish can be customized to suit your taste and what you have on hand.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together to create something magical. Let’s take a closer look at the key components:

Pasta: This recipe works best with shapes that hold the sauce well, like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli. Their ridges capture the creamy tomato sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. Thighs are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked, while breasts offer a leaner option.

Tomatoes: A can of crushed tomatoes is the star ingredient here, providing a robust base for the sauce. If you like a chunkier texture, diced tomatoes work too. For a hint of sweetness, add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.

Cream: A splash of heavy cream transforms the tomato sauce into a luscious, velvety coating for the pasta. You can substitute with half-and-half if you prefer a lighter version.

Garlic and Onion: These aromatics are essential for building a flavorful base. Freshly minced garlic and finely diced onion ensure the sauce is packed with depth and fragrance.

No special equipment is required—just a large pot for boiling pasta and a skillet for cooking the sauce and chicken.

How To Make This Chicken Tomato Pasta

Making this dish is as simple as it is satisfying. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you master it:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining—this will help you adjust the sauce's consistency later.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, and sauté the diced onion until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, releasing its aromatic fragrance.

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine with the onions and garlic. Let the sauce simmer for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in the heavy cream and return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together until evenly coated.

Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to ensure every piece is coated. Use the reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil for a burst of freshness. Enjoy immediately!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), this pasta stores beautifully. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerate: Store the cooled pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to refresh the sauce.

Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Pro Tip: If you plan to make this recipe for meal prep, consider storing the pasta and sauce separately. This prevents the pasta from soaking up too much sauce, keeping the dish fresh and flavorful.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Chicken Tomato Pasta is its flexibility. Here are a few ways you can make it your own:

Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a veggie-packed version.

Protein Swap: Replace the chicken with shrimp, sausage, or even crispy bacon for a different flavor profile.

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to give the dish a spicy kick.

Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for an earthy, aromatic touch.

Cheese Lovers: Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella or dollops of ricotta for extra creaminess.

With its endless variations and foolproof method, this Chicken Tomato Pasta recipe is one you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again. Have fun experimenting, and happy cooking!

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