Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti

This Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti recipe is a delightful fusion of fresh ingredients like garlic, tomatoes, and spinach. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this pasta dish is both satisfying and nutritious, making it an excellent choice for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic creates a rich taste that everyone will love.
• Nutritious Ingredients: With chicken and plenty of vegetables, this recipe is not only tasty but also healthy.
• Versatile Meal: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or switching the protein.
• Family-Friendly: Kids enjoy the delicious flavors, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable while preparing Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Pasta pot
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to sauté ingredients without crowding.
• Cooking spoon: A sturdy spoon helps mix everything well and ensures even cooking.
• Pasta pot: A pot specifically for boiling pasta makes it easy to cook spaghetti to al dente perfection.
• Colander: Draining pasta properly prevents sogginess and keeps your dish light.

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

• 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 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 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 drained from them to a large skillet over medium-low heat.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add chopped chicken to the skillet. Boneless skinless thighs are recommended for tenderness.

Step 3: Season It Up

Sprinkle red pepper flakes and salt over the chicken and sun-dried tomatoes.

Step 4: Cook Until Done

Cook on medium heat until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink, about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Fresh Ingredients

Stir in chopped tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, spinach, and garlic. Cook on medium heat for about 3-5 minutes until the spinach wilts slightly and tomatoes release their juices. Remove from heat.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your mixture and add more salt if necessary. Cover with a lid to keep warm off heat.

Step 7: Cook the Pasta

In a separate pot, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 8: Combine Everything

Drain the pasta. Add it to the skillet with chicken and vegetables.

Step 9: Heat Through

Reheat everything on low heat. Mix well, adding more seasonings like salt or pepper if desired. Remove from heat again.

Step 10: Final Touches

At this point, you can add more high-quality olive oil for extra flavor—this step is optional but highly recommended! Alternatively, use olive oil from the sun-dried tomato jar for added depth.

Enjoy your delicious Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti!

How to Serve Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti

This delicious Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Here are some serving suggestions that will make your meal even more enjoyable.

With Freshly Grated Parmesan

• Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a salty, nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• Serve with warm garlic bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and adds a crunchy texture to your meal.

Garnished with Fresh Basil

• Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the top before serving. This enhances the dish’s aroma and gives it a vibrant, fresh look.

Paired with a Side Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette dressing balances the richness of the pasta. Consider including cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for added freshness.

Drizzled with Balsamic Glaze

• A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy element, elevating the dish’s overall taste.

Served in Individual Bowls

• Presenting the pasta in individual bowls makes serving easy and adds a touch of elegance to your dining experience.

SAVE THIS!

How to Perfect Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti

To achieve the best results with your Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose high-quality ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and good-quality olive oil to enhance flavor.
• Cook chicken thoroughly: Ensure chicken is cooked through by checking it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Don’t overcook spinach: Add spinach towards the end of cooking for maximum freshness and nutrition.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go, adding salt or pepper according to your preference for a perfectly seasoned dish.
• Use al dente pasta: This keeps the pasta firm and allows it to hold its shape when mixed with other ingredients.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like oregano or thyme for additional depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti

Pairing side dishes with your Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic salad topped with croutons and Caesar dressing complements pasta well.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrients to your plate.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and is rich in vitamins.
5. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables provides variety.
6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort alongside the spaghetti.
7. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles as a light side.
8. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil creates an appetizer that pairs perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti can be a delight, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Using the Wrong Chicken Cut: Always opt for boneless skinless chicken thighs for juiciness. If you use chicken breast, it may dry out quickly.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Don’t rely on dried herbs or canned tomatoes. Fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes make a significant difference in flavor.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Follow package instructions closely to ensure your spaghetti is al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and unappetizing.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Taste your dish before serving. Adding salt and pepper at the end boosts flavors significantly.
• Not Reheating Properly: If reheating leftovers, do it gently to avoid overcooking the chicken and vegetables.

SAVE THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to leave space for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a baking dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating, about 3-5 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti?

Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is a delicious pasta dish featuring fresh tomatoes, spinach, and tender chicken cooked together with herbs and spices.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes! Frozen spinach works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess water before adding it to the dish.

How can I customize Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti?

You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu for different flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping ahead of time.

Can I substitute sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes! You can use fresh cherry tomatoes if you prefer a lighter flavor. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with fresh ingredients that are sure to please everyone at your table. Its versatility allows you to customize based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or something special, this dish will satisfy your cravings. Give it a try today!

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