This Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti recipe is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients that come together in a quick and easy dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings, this pasta not only satisfies hunger but also impresses with its vibrant flavors. With juicy tomatoes, tender chicken, and nutritious spinach, this meal stands out as both healthy and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This dish takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Fresh garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil create a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Family-Friendly: With its appealing flavors and textures, this spaghetti dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- Versatile Option: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein sources.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients from spinach and tomatoes, it’s a wholesome meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential kitchen tools that will help you prepare the Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti efficiently.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Pasta pot
- Colander
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and vegetables evenly while allowing ample space for stirring.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and precise, ensuring even cooking.
- Pasta pot: A spacious pot helps cook spaghetti perfectly al dente without overcrowding.
- Colander: Essential for draining pasta effectively, preventing water from diluting your sauce.
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 Sauce
- 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 (preferably, boneless skinless thighs), chopped)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 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 the sun-dried tomatoes jar)
How to Make Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 2 tablespoons of olive oil, drained from sun-dried tomatoes, to 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 the Mixture
Sprinkle red pepper flakes and salt over all of the ingredients in the skillet.
Step 4: Sauté Until Cooked
Cook on medium heat until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Add Vegetables
Stir in chopped tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, spinach, and chopped garlic. Cook on medium heat for about 3-5 minutes until spinach wilts slightly and tomatoes release some juices. Remove from heat.
Step 6: Taste Test
Taste your mixture and add more salt if needed. Cover with a lid to keep warm off heat.
Step 7: Cook Spaghetti
Prepare pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
Step 8: Combine Pasta with Sauce
Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet with chicken and vegetables.
Step 9: Reheat & Mix
Reheat on low heat while mixing everything well. Adjust seasonings (salt and pepper) if desired. Remove from heat.
Step 10: Final Touches
Optionally add more high-quality olive oil at this point for extra flavor! Or consider using more oil from the sun-dried tomato jar for added richness.
How to Serve Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Serving Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is a delightful experience that brings out the flavors of fresh ingredients. Here are some creative suggestions to enhance your meal.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Garlic bread is a classic choice. Its crispy texture and buttery flavor complement the pasta perfectly.
Add a Fresh Salad
- A simple green salad adds crunch and freshness. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing touch.
Top with Parmesan Cheese
- Grating fresh Parmesan cheese over your dish adds a savory finish. It melts beautifully and enhances the overall flavor.
Serve with Wine
- Pairing this dish with white wine, like Pinot Grigio, elevates the dining experience. The acidity of the wine matches well with the tomato sauce.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Adding extra chopped basil or parsley as a garnish brightens up the dish. It not only looks appealing but also adds freshness.
Include Extra Chili Flakes
- For those who enjoy heat, offering extra chili flakes on the side allows everyone to customize their serving according to their spice preference.
How to Perfect Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti, consider these tips.
- Use high-quality ingredients: Investing in good olive oil and fresh vegetables enhances the taste significantly.
- Cook pasta al dente: This ensures that the pasta holds its shape and texture when mixed with the sauce.
- Don’t overcook spinach: Allowing spinach to wilt just slightly keeps it vibrant and retains its nutrients.
- Season gradually: Taste as you go! Adjusting salt and pepper during cooking helps you achieve perfect seasoning.
- Add olive oil at the end: Drizzling high-quality olive oil before serving boosts flavor without overpowering other ingredients.
- Experiment with protein: Try substituting chicken with shrimp or tofu for different variations of this dish.
Best Side Dishes for Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Enhancing your meal can be as simple as choosing the right side dishes. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside your Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti.
- Caprese Salad: This classic Italian salad made with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil complements the pasta beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your meal.
- Antipasto Platter: Featuring olives, cheeses, and cured meats provides a flavorful appetizer before diving into your main course.
- Zucchini Noodles: A lighter option that pairs well with spaghetti while adding more veggies to your plate.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil makes for an inviting starter or snack.
- Minestrone Soup: A hearty soup filled with vegetables can be a comforting side that fills you up before the main dish.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a rich side that pairs nicely with chicken pasta.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds elegance and complements the flavors of your spaghetti without overwhelming them.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking can be tricky, especially when making dishes like Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to season their chicken and vegetables properly. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking spaghetti for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Follow the package instructions and aim for al dente.
- Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and spinach make a difference in flavor. Avoid canned or frozen options whenever possible for this recipe.
- Ignoring the cooking order: Adding ingredients in the wrong order can affect cooking times. Always cook chicken first, then add vegetables to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.
- Neglecting to drain pasta properly: Leaving excess water on your spaghetti can make your dish watery. Make sure to drain it well before combining with other ingredients.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
- You can freeze individual portions of the dish in freezer-safe containers.
- The spaghetti will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the spaghetti in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat a little olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spaghetti and stir occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti.
How do I make Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti healthier?
You can use whole wheat spaghetti or add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients.
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or shrimp based on your preference.
What should I serve with Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti?
A light salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish, complementing its fresh flavors.
How long does it take to prepare Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti?
The total time is about 30 minutes, making it an ideal quick dinner option for busy nights.
Final Thoughts
Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different proteins or veggies based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!
Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is a vibrant and satisfying meal that combines juicy chicken, fresh spinach, and ripe tomatoes in a delightful pasta dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. The harmonious blend of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and basil adds a burst of flavor to every bite. Whether you’re looking for a healthy option or something the whole family will love, this quick chicken spaghetti checks all the boxes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken (chopped)
- 4 roma tomatoes (chopped)
- 8 oz fresh spinach
- 3 garlic cloves (chopped)
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and olive oil.
- Add chopped chicken and season with salt and red pepper flakes. Cook until no longer pink.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes, basil, spinach, and garlic; cook until spinach wilts.
- Cook spaghetti per package instructions until al dente; drain well.
- Combine cooked spaghetti with the chicken mixture in the skillet; mix thoroughly.
- Serve warm, optionally drizzled with more olive oil and garnished with fresh herbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
