Chicken Tomato Pasta Recipe that is Quick and Flavorful

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Need a flavor packed chicken tomato pasta recipe? This article gives you the ingredients and step-by-step instructions below! Check it out!

When you’re in the mood for a comforting yet simple meal, Chicken Tomato Pasta delivers on all fronts.

Juicy chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a vibrant tomato-based sauce come together to create a hearty dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes.

This recipe has been a go-to in my kitchen for years, especially when I need something wholesome without spending hours cooking.

With a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

Chicken Tomato Pasta is packed with flavor and checks all the boxes for a satisfying meal.

Here’s why it’s a crowd-pleaser:

Quick and Convenient: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for those nights when time is tight.
Loaded with Flavor: Juicy chicken, tangy tomatoes, and fragrant herbs combine to create a delicious balance of flavors.
Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Affordable Ingredients: Using staples like chicken, pasta, and canned tomatoes makes it easy on your wallet.

Once you try it, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your weekly rotation!

This dish comes together with just a few key ingredients, each playing an essential role:

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for tender, juicy bites. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for faster cooking.
Pasta: Penne, spaghetti, or fusilli are great choices. Their shapes hold the sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.
Tomatoes: Canned diced or crushed tomatoes create the base of the sauce. Use tomato puree if you prefer a smoother consistency.
Garlic and Onion: These aromatics form the foundation of the dish, adding savory depth to the sauce.
Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley bring brightness to the dish, while dried Italian seasoning is a convenient alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, umami-rich touch that complements the sauce.
Olive Oil: A good-quality olive oil enhances the overall flavor while keeping the ingredients from sticking to the pan.

With just these simple components, you’ll have a meal bursting with flavor.

Follow these straightforward steps to create a restaurant-worthy Chicken Tomato Pasta:

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Prepare the Tomato Sauce
Add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 8–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the sauce. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until evenly combined. Cook for another 2–3 minutes to heat through.
Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the dish with grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors!

If you have leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh and delicious:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the pasta for up to 1 month. Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.

This versatile recipe can be customized to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Boost the Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
Spice It Up: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
Cheese Swap: Use pecorino romano or melt mozzarella into the sauce for a creamy twist.
Try New Pasta: Whole wheat, gluten-free, or lentil-based pasta are excellent options for a healthier version.
Protein Alternatives: Replace chicken with shrimp, sausage, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly dish.

Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination!

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Sauté onion and garlic in the same skillet until softened.
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and chicken broth. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Add heavy cream (if using) for a creamy finish.
Toss in the cooked pasta and chicken, adding reserved pasta water if needed to adjust consistency.
Garnish with Parmesan cheese and parsley before serving.

This Chicken Tomato Pasta is the ultimate combination of simplicity and comfort.

Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

With its hearty flavors and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again.

Give it a try tonight!