Chicken Tomato Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like a comforting bowl of Chicken Tomato Pasta to turn an ordinary dinner into something extraordinary. The savory aroma of garlic, the tangy burst of tomatoes, and the richness of tender chicken come together beautifully in this dish. It's a family favorite that’s quick, hearty, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

I first whipped up this recipe on a busy weeknight when my pantry was nearly bare. With just a few simple ingredients, it became an instant hit at the dinner table. Let me share this gem of a recipe with you—it’s bound to become a staple in your home too.

Why You'll Love This Chicken Tomato Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this delightful Chicken Tomato Pasta. It’s a recipe that checks all the boxes for busy cooks and food lovers alike.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. In less than 30 minutes, you can serve a restaurant-quality meal that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.

Next, the flavors are simply irresistible. Juicy, seasoned chicken pairs perfectly with a rich tomato-based sauce that’s infused with garlic, basil, and a hint of spice. Every bite is a perfect balance of savory and tangy.

This dish is also budget-friendly and versatile. Made with pantry staples like pasta, canned tomatoes, and chicken, it won’t break the bank. Plus, you can customize it with whatever you have on hand—swap the chicken for shrimp or toss in some spinach for extra greens.

Lastly, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works for any occasion. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or impressing guests, this dish never fails to deliver.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Chicken Tomato Pasta lies in its simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. They cook quickly and remain tender. If you prefer, you can substitute with cooked rotisserie chicken for even faster prep.

Pasta: I recommend penne, rigatoni, or fusilli. These shapes have grooves that hold onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful. If you’re gluten-free, opt for your favorite alternative pasta.

Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are the star of the sauce. Choose fire-roasted tomatoes for an added smoky depth of flavor.

Garlic and Onion: These aromatics are essential for building the foundation of the sauce. Minced garlic and diced onion create a fragrant base that enhances every other ingredient.

Seasonings: A mix of Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil takes the sauce to the next level. Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance.

For this recipe, all you need is a large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta. No fancy gadgets are required!

How To Make This Chicken Tomato Pasta

Making this Chicken Tomato Pasta is as easy as it gets. Follow these steps for a flawless dish every time.

Start by cooking your pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add your chosen pasta, and cook according to the package instructions. Save a cup of pasta water before draining—it’s liquid gold for the sauce!

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle in some olive oil. Season your chicken with salt, pepper, and a touch of Italian seasoning, then sear it in the skillet until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened, scraping up any browned bits left from the chicken. This is where the flavor magic happens.

Next, pour in your canned diced tomatoes, a splash of pasta water, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer and thicken slightly, then stir in fresh basil for a burst of herbal freshness.

Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss it back into the skillet along with the drained pasta. Mix everything together until well coated in the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Dinner is served! Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish.

Storage Options

Chicken Tomato Pasta is a fantastic make-ahead meal and stores beautifully for later.

To store leftovers, transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors meld even more over time, making it just as delicious on day two.

For longer storage, freeze the pasta in individual portions for up to two months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.

Avoid overcooking the pasta when reheating to maintain its texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, making it a great canvas for creativity in the kitchen.

For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables. Zucchini and bell peppers work especially well.

Want to up the protein? Use shrimp or Italian sausage instead of chicken. Both pair wonderfully with the tomato-based sauce.

If you’re craving extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese at the end. It transforms the dish into a luscious, indulgent treat.

Add a pop of green with spinach or kale. Simply toss the greens into the sauce and let them wilt before mixing in the pasta.

Don’t have fresh basil? Use dried basil or parsley as a substitute. While fresh herbs add brightness, the dried versions still deliver plenty of flavor.

This Chicken Tomato Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s a recipe that brings comfort, joy, and plenty of smiles to the table. Try it out, and let your kitchen be filled with the warmth and aroma of this classic dish!

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