This Chicken Creamy Tomato Pasta is a cozy dish with tender chicken pieces in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special!
Honestly, who can resist pasta coated in a yummy cream sauce? When I make this, I can’t help but twirl the pasta on my fork with a big smile. It’s so satisfying! 😊
I love how quickly this meal comes together. Just a few ingredients and you’ll have a warm plate of comfort that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne is great for holding the creamy sauce, but you can use other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type you choose!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here, but you can always use thighs for a juicier flavor or leftovers from a rotisserie chicken for convenience!
Tomato Sauce: A good quality tomato sauce works wonders. If you want a fresher taste, crushed tomatoes or even fresh diced tomatoes can bring brightness to the dish.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or coconut cream. My personal preference is to stick with heavy cream, as it gives the richest flavor.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Is Tender and Juicy?
Getting tender and juicy chicken pieces is key in this dish. The secret lies in a few steps:
- Ensure the chicken pieces are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while searing. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Season with salt and pepper for a flavor boost, and remove the chicken when it’s golden brown but still slightly undercooked, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
With this approach, you’ll enjoy tender, flavorful chicken in your creamy pasta!
Why Is Properly Sautéing Onion and Garlic Important?
Sautéing onion and garlic to the right level enhances the flavor of your sauce significantly. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat; too high can burn the garlic before the onions soften.
- Cook the onion until it’s translucent (about 3 minutes) before adding garlic, which should only take about 30 seconds to become fragrant.
- Watch closely during the last moments to avoid burning garlic; it can turn bitter!
This technique builds a wonderful base for your creamy tomato sauce, making it full of depth and flavor.
Chicken Creamy Tomato Pasta with Tender Chicken
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious Chicken Creamy Tomato Pasta takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a cozy dish!
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden and cooked all the way through. Once it’s done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for later.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent, which should take around 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, or until it’s fragrant. Careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet and stir in the rest of the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), salt, and black pepper. Let this simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together beautifully.
5. Add Cream and Cheese:
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir in the heavy cream along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy, looking absolutely delicious!
6. Combine Chicken and Spinach:
Now, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the fresh spinach. Stir gently until the spinach wilts, which should take about 1-2 minutes—so vibrant!
7. Toss Pasta with Sauce:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together so that the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy tomato sauce. Make sure every bite is full of flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Chicken Creamy Tomato Pasta hot, garnished with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and some fresh basil or parsley if you’d like. Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends!
Dig in and savor the rich, velvety sauce and tender chicken in every delicious bite! 🍝
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option for added fiber and nutrients. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may take a minute or two longer to reach al dente compared to regular pasta.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or even almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of cornstarch for thickness. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream works well too, giving a unique flavor!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra cream or broth if the sauce has thickened.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Sure! Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Sauté them along with the onions to ensure they’re cooked through and add a nice depth of flavor to the dish!
