If you’re looking for a comforting and vibrant dish that can be whipped up on a busy weeknight or layered for a weekend dinner gathering, Tomato Chicken Pasta is your go-to recipe. I’ve made this dish countless times, and each time, I’m reminded of how easily it marries juicy chicken with tangy tomatoes and perfectly cooked pasta to create a soul-satisfying meal.
Why Make This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of tender chicken, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a hearty yet refreshing taste.
- Nutrition-Rich: Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the tomatoes, this dish can be part of a balanced meal.
- Quick and Easy: With under 30 minutes of cooking time, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
- Versatile Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients on hand, making it a convenient option.
- Family Favorite: My kids love this recipe! Seeing them enjoy a veggie-packed meal is one of the many reasons I cherish this dish.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
This recipe combines sautéing, boiling, and simmering to create a full-flavored dish that’s quick to prepare.
My Experience Making This Recipe
During one of my cooking adventures, I decided to give this Tomato Chicken Pasta a try for a casual family dinner. I initially underestimated how much flavor could come from a simple sauce made with canned tomatoes and fresh basil. Watching my family devour it made the little kitchen mishaps worth it, especially when I forgot to set the timer and nearly overcooked the pasta!
How to Make Tomato Chicken Pasta
To prepare this delightful dish, you’ll first sauté diced chicken in a pan until golden brown and cooked through. Next, you’ll introduce flavorful ingredients like garlic, tomatoes, and herbs, allowing them to meld together. Finally, you’ll toss in your choice of pasta for a warm, comforting meal. Expect a delightful aroma filling your kitchen as you cook.
Expert Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: While canned tomatoes work, using fresh tomatoes in season can elevate the flavor to new heights.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Season Generously: Be liberal with your salt and herbs. Tasting as you go can make a world of difference.
- Add a Splash of Water: If your sauce is too thick while simmering, add a tablespoon of pasta cooking water to loosen it up.
- Marinate the Chicken: For added flavor, marinate your chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for about 30 minutes before cooking.
How to Serve Tomato Chicken Pasta
For optimal presentation, serve your pasta in a large bowl topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped basil. Pair with a fresh green salad and some crusty garlic bread on the side. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or an easy date night dinner at home.
Storage and Reheating Guide
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the dish for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Recipe Variations
- Whole Wheat Pasta: Substitute with whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta varieties for a dietary sensitive alternative.
- Add Veggies: Throw in spinach or bell peppers for a colorful twist and added nutrition.
- Herb Infusion: Try incorporating fresh thyme or oregano into the dish for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Highlights
This dish provides lean protein from chicken, essential vitamins from tomatoes, and carbohydrates from pasta, making it a balanced meal. It’s also nut-free, soy-free, and can be made gluten-free using the right pasta choices, making it accommodating for various dietary needs.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Sauce Too Thin: If your sauce is runny, simmer it longer to allow it to reduce and thicken.
- Pasta Sticking: To avoid sticking, make sure to boil the pasta in plenty of salted water and stir occasionally.
- Chicken Not Cooked Through: If your chicken is still pink, lower the heat and cover the pan briefly to allow it to steam and cook thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, simply ensure the chicken is fully defrosted before cooking to ensure even cooking.
2. What can I substitute for pasta?
Zoodles (zucchini noodles) or spaghetti squash can be great low-carb alternatives.
3. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! It freezes well, making it a perfect meal prep option.
4. Can I add cheese to the dish?
Definitely! Adding mozzarella or ricotta can create a creamy texture that complements the dish perfectly.
Tomato Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Nut-Free, Soy-Free, Gluten-Free (with alternative pasta)
Description
A comforting and vibrant dish combining juicy chicken, tangy tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients
- 1 lb diced chicken
- 2 cups canned tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 12 oz pasta of choice
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté diced chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add minced garlic and canned tomatoes. Stir in fresh basil and season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce in the pan until well coated.
- Serve topped with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped basil.
Notes
For added flavor, marinate chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Boiling, Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg