Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta
A creamy and comforting pasta dish featuring succulent chicken, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes, perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine) Use penne or fettuccine for best sauce adherence.
- 2 pieces chicken breasts, thinly sliced Boneless and skinless works best for quick cooking.
- 2 cups fresh spinach The fresher, the better for vibrant color.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved These sweet gems burst with flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream For a luxurious, creamy texture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil A good quality extra virgin enhances flavor.
- to taste salt and pepper
- for serving grated Parmesan cheese Always fresh for the best results.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving 1 cup of the cooking water, and set aside.
- Chef’s Tip: You can add a splash of olive oil to the cooking water to prevent sticking.
Sautéing the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for around 6-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Chef’s Tip: Ensure the chicken is in one layer for even cooking. Do not overcrowd the pan.
Adding Flavor
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
- Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow it to bubble and thicken for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Combining and Serving
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
- Plate the Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta and generously sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat or in the microwave. Can prepare chicken and sauce ahead, adding pasta just before serving.