Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta
Highlighted under: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes
Indulge in this delicious creamy tomato chicken pasta, a perfect blend of flavors that will satisfy your cravings.
This creamy tomato chicken pasta is not just a meal; it's a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any dinner table. With tender chicken pieces enveloped in a luscious tomato cream sauce, it's sure to become a family favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy tomato sauce that clings to every bite of pasta
- Juicy chicken pieces that add protein and flavor
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
A Perfect Comfort Food
Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta is the epitome of comfort food. The rich, velvety sauce envelops the pasta, creating a satisfying dish that warms the heart. Whether you're coming home after a long day or hosting a cozy dinner, this meal is sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of tender chicken and creamy sauce makes it both indulgent and nourishing, a delightful balance that leaves you wanting more.
This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a meal that feels gourmet. The use of fresh garlic and Italian seasoning elevates the flavors, making every bite a burst of deliciousness. Paired with your favorite pasta, this dish is not just filling but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Customizable and Versatile
One of the best aspects of Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat pasta or substituting the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative. You can also add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for an extra nutritional boost, making it a well-rounded meal.
Feel free to experiment with different proteins as well. If chicken isn't your preference, shrimp or even tofu can be delicious alternatives. The base sauce remains the same, allowing you to enjoy this dish in various forms. This adaptability makes it a fantastic recipe to keep in your rotation.
Serving Suggestions
When serving Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta, consider complementing it with a fresh side salad. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta. Additionally, a side of garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks makes for a delightful pairing, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
For a final touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving. It adds an extra layer of flavor and a touch of elegance to the dish. Don't forget to garnish with fresh basil; it not only enhances the visual appeal but also brings a fragrant herbal note that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta of your choice
- Salt for boiling water
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Enjoy your creamy tomato chicken pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad!
Tips for Perfect Pasta
To achieve the perfect pasta texture, always cook it al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. This not only enhances the overall mouthfeel but also prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce. Make sure to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining, as it can be used to adjust the sauce's consistency if needed.
Another tip is to add a generous amount of salt to the boiling water. This is your opportunity to flavor the pasta itself, ensuring that each bite is delicious. The water should taste like the sea for optimal flavor infusion.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce's creaminess and prevent it from drying out. Heat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
This dish also freezes well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as described above.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the sauce.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative for a lighter version.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta fresh when you're ready to serve.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
You can add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta
Indulge in this delicious creamy tomato chicken pasta, a perfect blend of flavors that will satisfy your cravings.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta of your choice
- Salt for boiling water
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 24g