Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Cut into 1-inch cubes); 1 tablespoon Olive oil; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper; 1 Onion (small, chopped); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 28 ounces Crushed tomatoes (can); 10 ounces Frozen spinach (package, thawed and squeezed dry); 1 cup Heavy cream; 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 0.25 teaspoon Dried oregano; 0.25 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional); 1 pound Pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)

BY :

Evelyn

Posted On :

September 12, 2025

Dinner

Are you craving a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further than this Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta! This dish is a symphony of textures and tastes, blending tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a luscious creamy tomato sauce all tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or even a satisfying meal for one. Forget complicated recipes and endless prep time; this Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta comes together quickly and effortlessly, leaving you with more time to enjoy the delicious results. Get ready to experience a pasta dish that elevates the humble weeknight meal to a culinary masterpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen:

Unbelievably Easy: The simplicity of this recipe is its greatest strength. With minimal prep work and straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results.
Ready in Under 30 Minutes: Busy weeknights are no match for this speedy recipe. From start to finish, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying dinner on the table in less than half an hour.
One-Pan Wonder (Almost!): This recipe minimizes cleanup with the use of primarily one pan (plus a pot for the pasta). Less washing up means more time to relax and savor your meal.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy tomato sauce, earthy spinach, savory chicken, and a hint of spice creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Customizable to Your Taste: Feel free to add your own personal touch! Experiment with different herbs, spices, or cheeses to create your own unique variation of this delicious pasta dish. Add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of intense flavor or some mushrooms for a more earthy taste.
Versatile and Adaptable: Leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it a perfect meal-prep option. It’s also easily adaptable to different dietary needs; see our tips and variations section for ideas!
Kid-Friendly Appeal: The creamy sauce and familiar ingredients make this dish a hit with even the pickiest eaters. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra vegetables!

Ultimately, this Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta offers a perfect balance of ease, flavor, and satisfaction, making it a recipe you’ll return to time and time again. It’s the kind of dish that warms the soul and leaves everyone feeling happy and well-fed.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta offers several compelling reasons to add it to your recipe repertoire:

Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and essential nutrients from the spinach, this dish provides a balanced and satisfying meal without compromising on flavor. It’s a much healthier alternative to many heavy cream-based pasta dishes.
Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are readily available and relatively inexpensive, making this a cost-effective meal option for families. Chicken breast is a surprisingly affordable protein source.
Impress Your Guests Without the Fuss: This recipe is sophisticated enough to serve to guests, yet simple enough to prepare even on a busy weeknight. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser without the stress of a complex culinary endeavor.
Great for Meal Prepping: The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making this a perfect make-ahead meal for busy schedules. You can prepare a large batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week.
Improves Your Cooking Skills: While simple, this recipe allows you to practice essential cooking techniques like sautéing, simmering, and creating a balanced sauce. It’s a great stepping stone to more advanced recipes.
A Delicious Way to Eat Your Greens: This recipe cleverly incorporates spinach into a delicious and appealing dish. It’s a great way to increase your vegetable intake, especially for picky eaters who might otherwise avoid spinach.
Perfect for Any Season: This versatile dish is equally enjoyable during the colder months when you crave a warm, comforting meal, and during warmer months when a lighter yet satisfying pasta is desired.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

Gathering the right ingredients and having the proper tools are crucial for recipe success. Let’s make sure you have everything you need before you start cooking!

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture. You can cut these into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Opt for extra virgin olive oil for its superior flavor and health benefits. This will add depth to your sauce.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Use kosher salt or sea salt for a more refined taste. Always adjust seasoning to your preference.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is always recommended for the best flavor.
1 small onion, chopped: Yellow or white onions work perfectly. Finely chopping the onion ensures it cooks evenly.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is essential for the best flavor. You can use a garlic press or a knife to mince the garlic.
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Choose high-quality crushed tomatoes, such as San Marzano tomatoes, for a richer flavor. Avoid using tomato sauce or diced tomatoes.
1 (10 ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry: Make sure to thoroughly thaw the spinach and squeeze out as much excess water as possible to prevent a watery sauce. Fresh spinach can also be used – approximately 5oz.
1 cup heavy cream: Heavy cream adds the creamy richness to the sauce. You could substitute with half-and-half for a slightly lighter sauce.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a sharp and salty flavor. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it often contains cellulose.
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano: Dried oregano provides a warm and earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Fresh oregano can be used as well – about 1 tbsp.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): These add a touch of heat. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference. Cayenne pepper can be used as a substitute.
1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape): Choose a pasta shape that you enjoy. Penne, rotini, farfalle, or fusilli all work well.

Utensils You Will Need

Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
Large skillet or Dutch oven: For cooking the chicken and making the sauce. A non-stick skillet is recommended.
Cutting board: For chopping the onion and garlic.
Sharp knife: For chopping the onion, garlic, and chicken.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce.
Colander: For draining the pasta.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements.
Grater: For grating the Parmesan cheese.
Serving bowls or plates: To serve your delicious Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta.

Detailed Recipe Steps

Let’s embark on the culinary adventure of making this exquisite Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta!

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. **Important:** Don’t overcook the pasta! It should be firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, just in case your sauce needs a little extra liquid to reach the desired consistency.
Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and season with salt and pepper. **Tip:** Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure it browns properly. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant. **Don’t burn the garlic!** Low to medium heat is crucial for this step to avoid a bitter taste.
Make the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, thawed and squeezed spinach, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened. **Stir frequently** to prevent sticking and burning. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. **Tip:** If you want a richer, creamier sauce, you can add a tablespoon or two of butter at this point.
Serve: Serve immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds a beautiful finishing touch.

Tips and Variations

Here are a few tips and variations to elevate your Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta experience:

Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
Add Some Mushrooms: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic for a more earthy flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes for Extra Flavor: Incorporate a handful of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (chopped) into the sauce for a burst of intense flavor.
Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs such as basil, thyme, or rosemary to change the flavor profile of the dish.
Cream Cheese for Extra Creaminess: Add a few ounces of softened cream cheese to the sauce for an extra creamy texture.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Omit the chicken and use a plant-based protein source such as lentils, chickpeas, or crumbled tofu. For a vegan version, use a plant-based cream alternative.
Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to boost the nutritional value and flavor.
Cheese Variations: Try different cheeses like mozzarella, ricotta, or Asiago in addition to, or instead of, Parmesan.
Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this will prevent proper browning and may lead to steaming instead of searing.
Don’t Overcook the Spinach: Overcooked spinach will become mushy. Add it to the sauce only after you’ve simmered the tomatoes for a few minutes to preserve its vibrant green color and texture.

Nutritional Values and Benefits

This Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also offers several nutritional benefits:

Chicken: An excellent source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and boosting metabolism. It’s also a good source of niacin, selenium, and vitamin B6.
Spinach: A powerhouse of nutrients, spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, folate, and antioxidants. These nutrients support healthy vision, immune function, blood clotting, and overall well-being.
Tomatoes: A good source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease. They also contain vitamins C and K, potassium, and folate.
Parmesan Cheese: Provides calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth. It’s also a source of protein and various other minerals.
Pasta: Provides carbohydrates, which are the body’s primary source of energy. Choose whole wheat pasta for added fiber.

While the nutritional content will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes, a serving of this Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta generally contains a moderate amount of calories, protein, carbohydrates, and fat. It’s a balanced and relatively healthy meal option, especially compared to other richer pasta dishes.

Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients and quantities.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta with this recipe?

Absolutely! This Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta recipe works well with various pasta shapes, including penne, rotini, farfalle, fusilli, and even spaghetti. Choose your favorite!

How can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken. For a vegan version, substitute the chicken with lentils, chickpeas, or tofu, and use a plant-based cream alternative.

Can I make this Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is great for meal prepping! Prepare the sauce and cook the pasta and chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine just before serving. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin?

If your sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.

Are there any substitutions for heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a slightly different flavor profile. For a lighter sauce, use a combination of milk and a little cream cheese.

Conclusion

This Creamy Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta is a culinary gem that’s both simple and satisfying. Its blend of creamy tomato sauce, tender chicken, and healthy spinach creates a flavor combination that will leave you wanting more. The ease of preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights, while its delicious taste makes it suitable for impressing guests. Don’t forget to experiment with different herbs, spices, and cheeses to customize it to your preferences. Try it today and experience the comforting deliciousness for yourself!

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your experience making this Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family on social media, and be sure to check out other amazing recipes on our blog! For more delicious recipe inspiration, visit our recipes page and check out our Creamy Tomato Soup recipe for another delicious tomato-based dish. Happy cooking!