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Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe | Quick & Flavorful Meal

I love whipping up a quick, comforting pasta dish after a long day, and this tomato spinach chicken pasta has become my go-to. The creamy tomato sauce combined with tender chicken and fresh spinach feels indulgent but comes together in under 30 minutes.

I especially enjoy how the flavors balance perfectly—rich, tangy, and fresh all at once. It’s the kind of dinner that feels fancy but is actually super simple to make. Every bite leaves me craving another forkful! You can also enjoy similar dishes like steak fajitas quesadilla recipe or steak fajitas tacos recipe when you want a change from pasta.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful pasta dish:

8 ounces uncooked pasta – penne or your favorite pasta shape works best to hold the creamy sauce.
2 chicken breasts – choose fresh, boneless chicken for juicier results.
1/2 tablespoon garlic powder – adds a subtle, savory depth to the chicken.
Salt & pepper to taste – enhances all the other flavors.
1 tablespoon butter – helps sear the chicken and enrich the sauce.
1 tablespoon olive oil – balances the butter and prevents sticking.
2-3 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic brightens the sauce beautifully.
2 tablespoons tomato paste – gives concentrated tomato flavor.
1 (14-ounce) can tomato sauce – provides the base for the creamy sauce.
3/4 cup heavy cream – makes the sauce silky and smooth.
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs that complements both tomato and chicken.
2 cups of packed fresh baby spinach – fresh spinach keeps the dish vibrant and adds nutrients.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving – enhances the flavor with a nutty, salty finish.

Note: Serves 4

Variations

You can tweak this recipe to suit different dietary preferences:

Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free option.
Swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free twist.
Add crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
Try sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra depth.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large pot – for boiling pasta.
Skillet – for pan-frying chicken and making the sauce.
Wooden spoon – to stir the sauce smoothly.
Knife & cutting board – for slicing chicken and chopping garlic.
Measuring cups & spoons – for precise ingredient portions.

How to Make Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while preparing the sauce.

Prepare the Chicken

Cut chicken breasts into thinner pieces, season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pan-fry in butter and olive oil over medium-high heat until golden and fully cooked, then transfer to a plate.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, sauté garlic briefly, then stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, cream, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes until smooth and slightly thickened. You can also pair this creamy sauce with a steak fajitas quesadilla recipe for a Tex-Mex twist at dinner.

Combine Chicken and Spinach

Cut the cooked chicken into strips and add it to the sauce along with fresh spinach. Stir until spinach wilts and chicken is coated with the creamy sauce.

Toss with Pasta

Add drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it to coat evenly with sauce. Serve with freshly grated Parmesan on top for an extra flavor boost.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

I like to use fresh garlic over garlic powder for a more aromatic flavor.
Let the sauce simmer a bit longer if you prefer it thicker and creamier.
I always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving—it makes a big difference.
Using fresh spinach instead of frozen keeps the sauce bright and prevents excess water.

How to Serve Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe?

For a visually appealing plate, serve pasta in shallow bowls and sprinkle Parmesan generously on top. Add a sprig of fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. Pair with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete, satisfying meal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 480 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 18g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this pasta because cream-based sauces can separate when thawed.

Reheating: Gently reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This tomato spinach chicken pasta is one of my favorite weeknight meals. Here’s why:

Quick and easy – ready in just 30 minutes.
Comforting flavors – creamy, tangy, and full of fresh ingredients.
Versatile – works with various pastas, proteins, and flavor add-ins.
Family-friendly – picky eaters usually love it!
Customizable – add spice, extra veggies, or different cheeses to suit your taste.

Ben Carraoli