Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience a delightful blend of flavors with this Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta recipe. Tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and juicy tomatoes come together in a creamy sauce that coats al dente pasta for a comforting dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for the family.

Morgan Reeves

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2025-12-02T12:12:15.365Z

This Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta brings together the best of both worlds: a hearty, flavorful dish that doesn’t skimp on nutrition. Perfect for any occasion!

A Wholesome Meal for Any Occasion

Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines essential nutrients from fresh vegetables and lean protein. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes. By using fresh spinach and juicy tomatoes, you not only add vibrant color to your plate but also pack in vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to your family's health.

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply feeding your family, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. The creamy sauce enveloping the pasta creates a rich flavor profile that complements the chicken and vegetables beautifully. Serve this dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad to elevate your dining experience.

Easy to Customize

One of the standout features of this Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to swap in different proteins like shrimp or tofu to suit dietary preferences. You can also experiment with various vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. This adaptability makes it easy to cater to picky eaters or those looking for a meatless option without sacrificing flavor.

Additionally, if you're seeking to lighten the dish, consider using half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream. For a burst of flavor, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or freshly cracked black pepper can add a welcome hint of heat.

Perfect for Meal Prepping

If you're someone who enjoys meal prepping for the week ahead, this Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta is an excellent choice. It stores well in the refrigerator, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week. When reheating, simply add a splash of cream or a bit of chicken broth to maintain the creamy texture and prevent it from drying out.

By preparing this dish in batches, you not only save time but also ensure you have a healthy meal at your fingertips. Consider portioning it out into single servings for an easy lunch or dinner option that requires minimal effort on busy days.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 2 chicken breasts, diced
  • 2 cups spinach, fresh
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Parmesan cheese, for serving

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before you begin!

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the minced garlic, spinach, and cherry tomatoes. Cook until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and stir to combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top!

Nutritional Benefits

This Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta is not just about great taste; it also offers a variety of nutritional benefits. Spinach is rich in iron, antioxidants, and vitamins A, C, and K, making it a powerhouse of nutrition. Additionally, tomatoes are packed with lycopene, which is known for its heart-health benefits and potential cancer-fighting properties, adding yet another reason to enjoy this dish.

Opting for whole grain pasta can enhance the fiber content of your meal, aiding digestion and promoting overall health. Coupled with the protein from chicken and the good fats from olive oil, this meal provides a balanced and nourishing option for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, serve this dish with a generous sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan cheese right before serving. This adds a savory element that complements the creaminess of the sauce. If you're feeling adventurous, consider garnishing with fresh basil or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Pairing this Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta with a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea can enhance your meal wonderfully. For those looking to keep it non-alcoholic, a sparkling water with lemon should do the trick.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the dish.

→ What can I replace heavy cream with?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative if you prefer.

Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta

Experience a delightful blend of flavors with this Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta recipe. Tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and juicy tomatoes come together in a creamy sauce that coats al dente pasta for a comforting dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for the family.

Prep Time15.0
Cooking Duration20.0
Overall Time35.0

Created by: Morgan Reeves

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4.0

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 8 oz penne pasta
  2. 2 chicken breasts, diced
  3. 2 cups spinach, fresh
  4. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  5. 1 cup heavy cream
  6. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  7. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  8. Salt and pepper, to taste
  9. Parmesan cheese, for serving

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 02

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 03

Stir in the minced garlic, spinach, and cherry tomatoes. Cook until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 04

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and stir to combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 05

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 480
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g