I just tried this Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe, and I have to say—it’s become an instant favorite in my kitchen. I love how simple it is, yet the flavors are so rich and comforting. Every bite has the perfect balance of juicy chicken, fresh spinach, and a creamy tomato sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.

Making it feel like a small weekend treat, yet it’s easy enough for a busy weeknight. I’m excited to share this recipe with you so you can enjoy it as much as I do! You can also enjoy similar slow-cooker flavors in Slow Cooker Barbacoa Recipe.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful pasta dish. I’ve included pro tips to help you get the best results.

2 tablespoons olive oil – I like using extra virgin olive oil for its flavor.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
Salt and black pepper to taste – Season generously to enhance the chicken’s flavor.
4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic works best; it gives a richer, aromatic taste.
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – Adds a subtle heat without overpowering.
1 cup chicken broth – I prefer low-sodium to control the saltiness.
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes – I use fire-roasted for extra depth of flavor.
1/2 cup heavy cream – You can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme enhances the flavor.
4 cups fresh spinach – Avoid frozen spinach; it can release too much water.
12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli work well) – Cook al dente so it holds up in the sauce.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – I always grate it fresh for a nutty, creamy finish.

Note: Several servings

Variations

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to your preferences:

Dairy-free: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with a dairy-free alternative.
Low-carb: Swap regular pasta for zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
Extra flavor: Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a deeper taste. You can also try this approach in Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with Barbecue Sauce Recipe for a meaty variation.
Protein swap: Use shrimp or turkey instead of chicken for a different twist.

Cooking Time

Here’s a breakdown of the time it takes to make this recipe:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

You don’t need fancy tools—just these basics:

Large skillet – Perfect for cooking the chicken and sauce together.
Medium pot – For boiling the pasta.
Wooden spoon – To stir without scratching your pan.
Knife and cutting board – For chopping chicken, garlic, and spinach.
Grater – To shred fresh Parmesan cheese.

How to Make Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Follow these simple steps to create this delicious meal.

Prepare the Ingredients

First, chop your chicken into bite-sized pieces and mince the garlic. Measure out the spinach, chicken broth, and cream so everything is ready to go. Prepping ahead makes cooking faster and stress-free.

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through. This locks in the flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.

Make the Sauce

Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for a few minutes to let all the flavors meld.

Add the Cream and Spinach

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. The cream balances the acidity of the tomatoes, and the spinach adds freshness.

Combine with Pasta

Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Mix well to coat every piece of pasta in the creamy tomato goodness. Finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Here are some tricks I’ve learned from making this recipe multiple times:

I like to sear the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, which keeps it from steaming.
I always taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed.
Adding a splash of pasta water can help loosen the sauce if it’s too thick.
I sometimes finish the dish under the broiler for a minute to get the cheese slightly golden.

How to Serve Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Presentation makes this dish extra special. Serve it hot in shallow bowls. Garnish with extra Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves for color. A drizzle of olive oil over the top adds shine and flavor. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content per serving:

Calories: Approximately 450 kcal – Rich but balanced for a filling meal.
Protein: 35 grams – Thanks to chicken and pasta.
Carbohydrates: 40 grams – From pasta and tomatoes.
Fat: 18 grams – Mostly from olive oil and cream for a satisfying richness.

Make Ahead and Storage

This pasta can be prepped and stored conveniently:

Refrigerating: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why this pasta is my go-to meal:

Quick and Easy: It comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Flavorful: The creamy tomato sauce with spinach and chicken hits all the right notes.
Flexible: Easily adaptable for dairy-free, low-carb, or protein variations.
Family-Friendly: Everyone at my table enjoys it, kids included.
Impressive: Feels like a gourmet meal but is so simple to make.

This tomato spinach chicken pasta recipe is a comforting, versatile, and delicious dish that you can make any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a family dinner, or a casual gathering, it’s sure to impress and satisfy.

Ash Tyrrell