Chicken Tomato Pasta Recipe

There's nothing like the aroma of Chicken Tomato Pasta simmering away on the stove to make your home feel warm and inviting. This dish is a perfect harmony of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic and herbs.

I first created this recipe on a whim, trying to whip up something quick for a weeknight dinner. It turned out so delicious that it instantly became a staple in our household. Whether you're looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner or a quick comfort meal, this recipe has you covered.

Why You'll Love This Chicken Tomato Pasta

Get ready to meet your new favorite weeknight dinner. This Chicken Tomato Pasta is not just packed with flavor but also ticks all the boxes for a busy home cook.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. From start to finish, you can have this dish on the table in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when time is short.

Second, the ingredients are simple and budget-friendly. With pantry staples like pasta, canned tomatoes, and olive oil, you don’t need a trip to a specialty store to make something extraordinary.

Not to mention, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. The balance of tangy tomato sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta makes it appealing to even the pickiest eaters.

Finally, it’s a versatile dish. You can add vegetables, adjust the spice level, or swap out the pasta to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

So, grab your skillet and let’s get cooking – this meal is about to become a regular in your dinner rotation!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Chicken Tomato Pasta lies in its simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes this dish shine:

• Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean protein option. If you prefer more flavor, chicken thighs are an excellent alternative. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Pasta: Penne or spaghetti work beautifully for this recipe, but you can use any pasta shape you have on hand. Make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.
• Tomatoes: A can of diced tomatoes forms the base of the sauce, providing a robust, tangy flavor. If you want a smoother sauce, use crushed tomatoes instead.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds an aromatic depth to the dish. Don’t skimp here – it’s one of the stars of the sauce.
• Herbs: A combination of dried oregano and fresh basil brings the classic Italian flavors to life. If fresh basil isn’t available, a teaspoon of dried basil will work in a pinch.
• Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil ties all the flavors together, adding richness to the dish.

No special equipment is needed – just a large skillet and a pot for boiling the pasta. Easy peasy!

How to Make This Chicken Tomato Pasta

Creating this delicious dish is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps to bring your Chicken Tomato Pasta to life:

1. Cook the pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking your pasta until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining – it’s liquid gold for the sauce!
2. Prepare the chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then sear the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then toss in the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
4. Build the sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes, followed by the oregano and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat (optional). Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Combine everything: Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the sauce. Add the drained pasta, tossing everything together. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
6. Finish with herbs: Stir in the fresh basil, then taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

This entire process takes about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick, flavorful dinner.

Storage Options

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it stores. Here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as it reheats.

Variations and Substitutions

The flexibility of this Chicken Tomato Pasta means you can customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs:

• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese at the end for a richer sauce.
• Go spicy: Amp up the heat with more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Swap the protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, sausage, or even chickpeas for a different twist.
• Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish celiac-friendly.

Experiment with these ideas or come up with your own – the possibilities are endless!

Now that you’ve got everything you need, it’s time to make this Chicken Tomato Pasta your own. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to deliver a bowl of happiness every time. Enjoy!

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