There’s something comforting about a dish that combines fresh, vibrant ingredients with hearty pasta. Flavorful Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is a recipe that brings together tender chicken, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and aromatic garlic in a light and flavorful sauce that clings perfectly to strands of spaghetti. It’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner.
This dish isn’t just about great taste—it’s about balance. You’ll enjoy the rich flavors of the tomatoes and garlic paired with the freshness of spinach and basil. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious meal step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
This recipe combines everything you love about a classic pasta dish with a fresh twist. The tomatoes add a sweet and tangy burst of flavor, while the spinach brings color and nutrition to the plate. The cubed chicken breast makes the dish hearty and filling, and the sun-dried tomatoes elevate the flavor to a whole new level.
But what really makes this recipe a winner is how simple it is to make. From start to finish, you only need about 30 minutes to get a wholesome and delicious meal on the table. It’s perfect for family dinners, entertaining guests, or even meal prepping for the week.
Ingredients for Flavorful Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Here’s everything you need to make this mouthwatering dish:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sun-dried tomatoes | 1 cup |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Chicken breast, cubed | 1 pound |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Tomatoes, diced | 2 cups |
| Fresh basil, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Spinach leaves | 2 cups |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Spaghetti pasta | 8 ounces |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Making this dish is easy, and the process is broken down into simple steps. Let’s get started!
1. Prepare the Spaghetti
- Begin by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions.
- Cook until the pasta is al dente, then reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
- Set the spaghetti aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Pro Tip: Adding salt to the pasta water enhances the flavor of the spaghetti.
2. Sauté the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the cubed chicken breast and season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
- Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Pro Tip: For even cooking, cut the chicken into evenly sized cubes.
3. Cook the Garlic and Tomatoes
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.
Pro Tip: Use ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best flavor, but canned diced tomatoes can also work in a pinch.
4. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and spinach leaves.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the mixture is well combined.
Pro Tip: If using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, you can reduce the amount of olive oil added earlier.
5. Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained spaghetti.
- Toss everything together, adding a little of the reserved pasta water at a time to create a silky sauce that coats the pasta.
Pro Tip: The starch in the reserved pasta water helps to bind the sauce and pasta together.
6. Adjust and Serve
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or red pepper flakes if needed.
- Serve the Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti hot, garnished with fresh basil for a pop of flavor and color.
Pro Tip: Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
What Makes This Dish So Flavorful?
The secret to the incredible flavor of this dish lies in the combination of fresh and simple ingredients. The sun-dried tomatoes add a deep, tangy sweetness, while the garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic richness. The fresh basil and spinach bring a vibrant freshness that balances the dish beautifully. Tossing everything with perfectly cooked spaghetti ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Tips for Making the Perfect Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh tomatoes, spinach, and basil for the best flavor.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooking the pasta ensures it holds its shape and absorbs the sauce.
- Use Reserved Pasta Water: The starchy water is a natural thickener for the sauce, creating a silky texture.
- Adjust Heat Levels: Add more red pepper flakes for a spicier dish, or omit them for a milder version.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook the chicken in a single layer to ensure even browning.
Customizations and Variations
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Add Cheese: Top the dish with freshly grated Parmesan or crumbled feta for extra richness.
- Switch the Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Use Whole-Grain Pasta: For a healthier twist, use whole-grain or gluten-free spaghetti.
- Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.
FAQs About Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and will work perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure they are cooked through.
2. What can I use instead of spaghetti?
You can substitute spaghetti with linguine, fettuccine, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Store the chicken and sauce separately, then combine them with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add more spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even chickpeas for a protein boost.
6. Is this dish spicy?
The red pepper flakes add a mild heat, but you can adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
Conclusion: Make Flavorful Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti Tonight!
Now that you have the recipe, it’s time to bring this delicious Flavorful Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti to life. It’s a wholesome, well-balanced dish that’s easy to prepare and brimming with fresh flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy a satisfying meal that combines the best of fresh produce, tender chicken, and hearty pasta. Happy cooking!
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Flavorful Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti: A Wholesome and Easy Dinner
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Fresh, wholesome, and packed with vibrant flavors, this Flavorful Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is a perfect combination of tender chicken, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and aromatic garlic tossed with al dente spaghetti. It’s a light yet satisfying dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes and is guaranteed to impress your family or guests!
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 cups tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cups spinach leaves
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces spaghetti pasta
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Save 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the spaghetti. Set the pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the cubed chicken and season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Garlic and Tomatoes:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
4. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach:
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and spinach leaves.
- Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the flavors combine.
5. Combine Everything:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it with the tomato-spinach mixture.
- Add the drained spaghetti and toss everything together. Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water a little at a time until a silky sauce forms, coating the pasta evenly.
6. Adjust and Serve:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or red pepper flakes as needed.
- Serve the spaghetti hot, garnished with fresh basil for extra flavor.
Notes
- Customizations: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a dollop of cream for extra richness.
- Make it Vegetarian: Replace chicken with mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes for your preferred spice level.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing, Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired