Go Back

Creamy Chicken Tomato Pasta Recipe

Tender, seasoned chicken is paired with a rich and velvety tomato cream sauce made with sweet burst grape tomatoes, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach. This easy one-pan pasta is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner, delivering a delicious balance of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors in every bite. Ready in about 30 minutes, it's a satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Print Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs or chicken breast
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Garlic powder to taste
  • Paprika to taste
  • 8 oz pasta of choice
  • 1/2 onion thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 1/2 cups grape tomatoes sliced in half
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • Chili flakes to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups spinach
  • Neutral oil for cooking

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  • Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides.
  • Heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 4–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside. Cut the chicken into pieces.
  • Add a little more oil to the same pan if needed. Add the onion and sauté until softened and translucent.
  • Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  • Add the grape tomatoes and cook until they begin to burst and soften, about 4–5 minutes.
  • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
  • Pour in the heavy cream and reserved pasta water. Stir until smooth and combined.
  • Season with chili flakes to taste.
  • Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted into the sauce.
  • Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
  • Slice or dice the cooked chicken and return it to the pan. Stir to combine.
  • Add the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated in the creamy tomato sauce.
  • Serve immediately with additional Parmesan cheese and chili flakes, if desired.