If you are looking for a dish that is bursting with flavor, comfort, and just the right amount of creaminess, this Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that comes together quickly but tastes like you’ve been slaving in the kitchen all day. Juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a luxuriously smooth tomato cream sauce all mingle beautifully with fresh herbs and just the right kick of spice to keep things interesting. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become one of your go-to favorites that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe plays a crucial role, balancing rich, savory, and fresh flavors while delivering perfect textures. Using the right combination ensures the dish is satisfying without being complicated, making your cooking experience both fun and rewarding.
- 8 ounces rotini pasta: This spiral pasta holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a luscious, silky base for cooking the chicken and building flavor.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender protein that cooks quickly and absorbs all the delicious spices and sauce.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: Brings a warm, smoky depth of flavor that awakens the palate.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a touch of heat without overpowering the dish.
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: Provides a subtle spiciness and balance.
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add brightness and a hint of acidity to cut through the creaminess.
- 6 green onions, chopped: Bring a fresh, mildly sharp crunch that livens up the dish.
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds vibrant color and a burst of fresh herbal flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half): Creates the signature creamy sauce that coats every ingredient.
- ½ cup low-sodium or no-sodium chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce without overpowering it.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts on top for gooey, cheesy perfection that ties the whole dish together.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente — this means it’s tender but still has a slight bite. Cooking the pasta perfectly is key because it will finish cooking slightly when combined with the sauce later, keeping that ideal texture.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken with Spices
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces along with the chili powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning combo gives the chicken a vibrant kick and a smoky warmth that forms the backbone of the dish. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink on the inside, ensuring juicy and tender pieces every time.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Develop the Sauce
Stir in the chopped tomatoes, green onions, and parsley right into the skillet. Allow everything to cook together for about two minutes so the fresh flavors meld and the tomatoes begin to soften. Then, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bringing this mixture to a gentle boil helps marry all the flavors while thickening the sauce to a perfect creamy consistency.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Finish with Cheese
Add the cooked rotini pasta directly to the skillet and give everything a good stir so the sauce clings beautifully to each pasta piece and chicken bite. Finally, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top and let it melt slightly for that irresistible, gooey finish. You can garnish with a little more fresh parsley if you want an extra pop of color and freshness before serving immediately.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your dish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a pop of green that adds brightness and contrast. A light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also bring additional layers of flavor that guests will love.
Side Dishes
This creamy and hearty pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, simple side salads like a classic Caesar or mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are perfect for sopping up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls with a small bunch of fresh herbs laid artfully on the side. You can also layer the pasta in individual oven-safe dishes, sprinkle cheese, and briefly broil for a bubbly, golden crust — a fun twist your friends will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover creamy tomato chicken pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen, making it even tastier the next day, but the pasta may absorb some sauce and thicken, so be prepared to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, keep in mind that the texture of pasta can change slightly after thawing. If you want to freeze this dish, place it in a freezer-safe container and use within 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove to maintain the creaminess.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat your Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe over low heat on the stovetop. Add a little chicken broth, cream, or water to loosen the sauce as it warms. This gradual reheating keeps the chicken succulent and the sauce silky without separating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini is amazing at holding the sauce, penne, fusilli, or farfalle would also work wonderfully. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative and use a dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese topping to keep it creamy and satisfyingly flavorful.
How spicy is the Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe?
The chili powder and red pepper flakes provide a gentle warmth rather than overpowering heat. You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your taste to make it milder or spicier.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a party?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce components in advance and store them separately from the pasta. When ready, cook the pasta fresh and combine everything before serving for the best taste and texture.
What can I add to make this dish more nutritious?
Consider stirring in some steamed spinach, kale, or mushrooms when you add the tomatoes and green onions. These add-ins boost the nutrient profile and bring additional flavor and texture to the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe is a warm hug on a plate that’s both simple enough for a weeknight and special enough for guests. It’s a dish that brings people together with its comforting creaminess, balanced spices, and fresh flavors. I hope you’ll dive into this recipe and make it a beloved staple in your kitchen as much as I have in mine.
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Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and flavorful creamy tomato chicken pasta that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Tender bite-sized chicken pieces are cooked with a blend of spices and simmered in a luscious tomato cream sauce with fresh herbs, then tossed with perfectly cooked rotini pasta and topped with melted mozzarella cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces rotini pasta, uncooked
Chicken and Seasoning
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 6 green onions, chopped
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half)
- ½ cup low-sodium or no-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook Chicken: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces along with chili powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it’s no longer pink in the center and cooked through.
- Add Vegetables and Sauce: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, green onions, and parsley to the cooked chicken. Allow this mixture to cook for about 2 minutes to combine the flavors. Then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil to thicken the sauce.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy tomato chicken sauce. Stir well to coat all the pasta in the sauce evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top and allow it to melt slightly. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- You can substitute half and half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Adjust the chili powder and red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
- Fresh parsley can be replaced with basil or cilantro for a different herbaceous twist.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
