This Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti recipe is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. It combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic garlic, bringing the taste of Italy right to your table. Enjoy this easy-to-make meal that balances nutrition with mouthwatering flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein, it’s a nutritious choice for the whole family.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic adds depth to every bite.
- Customizable: Feel free to switch up the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cooking spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Colander
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Essential for sautéing the chicken and vegetables evenly.
- Cooking spoon: Helps in mixing all ingredients thoroughly for an even flavor.
- Colander: Useful for draining pasta without losing any noodles.
Ingredients
This chicken pasta recipe has lots of fresh ingredients: garlic, tomatoes, and spinach. This easy and quick dinner will become a family favorite!
For the Chicken Mixture
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped, drained of oil)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (drained from sun-dried tomatoes)
- 1/2 lb chicken (boneless and skinless thighs preferred, chopped)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
For the Fresh Vegetables
- 4 roma tomatoes (chopped)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
- 8 oz spinach (fresh)
- 3 garlic cloves (chopped)
For the Pasta
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (use high-quality olive oil or oil from sun-dried tomatoes jar)
How to Make Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Step 1: Prepare the Skillet
Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 2 tablespoons of olive oil from the sun-dried tomatoes jar into a large skillet over medium-low heat.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add chopped chicken to the skillet. You can use boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts as per your preference.
Step 3: Season Well
Sprinkle red pepper flakes and salt over all ingredients in the skillet.
Step 4: Sauté Until Cooked
Cook on medium heat until the chicken is fully cooked through and no longer pink, which should take about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Add Fresh Ingredients
Stir in chopped tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, spinach, and chopped garlic into the skillet with chicken. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until spinach wilts slightly and tomatoes release their juices. Remove from heat.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning
Taste your mixture and add more salt if needed. Cover with a lid to keep warm while you cook the pasta.
Step 7: Cook Pasta Al Dente
Prepare spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 8: Combine Pasta with Chicken Mixture
Drain pasta using a colander. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the chicken and vegetable mixture.
Step 9: Mix Everything Together
Reheat on low heat while mixing everything well. Add additional seasonings like salt and pepper if desired before removing from heat.
Step 10: Final Touch
At this point, you may add more high-quality olive oil for extra flavor if desired. It’s optional but enhances taste significantly!
Enjoy your delicious Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti!
How to Serve Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Serving Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti can turn a simple meal into a delightful dining experience. Here are some suggestions to enhance your presentation and flavor.
Add Fresh Herbs
- Basil Leaves: Sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving for a burst of flavor.
- Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds color and freshness.
Pair with Grated Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese: Top your dish with freshly grated Parmesan for a savory touch.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta can add a creamy texture and tangy taste.
Include a Side Salad
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
- Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing pairs wonderfully.
Serve with Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce.
- Ciabatta Rolls: Soft ciabatta rolls provide a chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the pasta.
How to Perfect Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
To ensure your Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti turns out amazing every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and tomatoes enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This helps maintain the pasta’s firmness, providing better bite and preventing sogginess.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you cook; adding salt or pepper enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Add Olive Oil Last: Drizzling high-quality olive oil just before serving elevates taste and richness.
Best Side Dishes for Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Complementing your Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti with the right sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, it’s perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce paired with creamy dressing adds freshness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender provide additional nutrition and flavor.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the pasta.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes contributes an extra layer of flavor.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus spears offer a healthy side that’s easy to prepare.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to steer clear of for the best results.
Using low-quality ingredients: The flavor of your dish greatly depends on the quality of your ingredients. Always opt for fresh tomatoes and high-quality olive oil for the best taste.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Cook just until it’s no longer pink to retain its juiciness.
Ignoring seasoning: Not adding enough salt or spices can lead to bland pasta. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly for a more flavorful dish.
Skipping the pasta water: The starch from the pasta water can help bind the sauce and pasta together. Reserve some before draining to create a creamier texture.
Not letting flavors meld: Allowing the finished dish to sit off heat for a few minutes helps flavors come together. Don’t rush to serve right away!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Use within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
- Freeze in individual portions for easy meals.
- Use freezer-safe containers and consume within 2-3 months.
Reheating Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered with foil until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring often until warm.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti.
How do I customize Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap out chicken for shrimp or sausage for different flavors.
Can I use whole wheat spaghetti instead?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti is a great alternative that adds fiber and nutrients while still tasting delicious.
What side dishes pair well with Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti?
A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this dish nicely.
How can I make this recipe lighter?
Consider using less olive oil or substituting with vegetable broth, and use skinless chicken breast instead of thighs.
Final Thoughts
Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is an easy and versatile dish that brings fresh flavors together beautifully. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or make it your own by adding different proteins and vegetables. Enjoy this comforting meal any night of the week!
Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings the essence of Italian cuisine right to your dining table. This comforting recipe features tender chicken, fresh spinach, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic garlic, all tossed with spaghetti for a delightful meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutritious ingredients that your family will love. With its rich flavors and colorful presentation, Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is sure to impress everyone at the dinner table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (from sun-dried tomatoes)
- 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken (chopped)
- 4 roma tomatoes (chopped)
- 8 oz fresh spinach
- 3 garlic cloves (chopped)
- 8 oz spaghetti
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and sun-dried tomatoes in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add chopped chicken and season with salt and red pepper flakes; cook until no longer pink.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes, spinach, basil, and garlic; cook until spinach wilts.
- Prepare spaghetti according to package instructions; drain.
- Combine cooked pasta with the chicken mixture in the skillet; mix well.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve garnished with fresh herbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 330g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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