Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti

Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is a fresh and vibrant pasta dish that combines Mediterranean-inspired flavors with the heartiness of chicken and the goodness of spinach. The sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of umami, while garlic, fresh basil, and a touch of red pepper flakes bring depth and a bit of heat. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights but feels like a special treat every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—quick, full of flavor, and satisfying. The combination of chicken, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes makes for a well-rounded meal, while the fresh basil and tomatoes add a bright, fresh kick. The best part? It’s all cooked in one skillet, making clean-up a breeze. Plus, the addition of olive oil from the sun-dried tomatoes gives the dish a rich, Mediterranean twist that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped, drained of oil)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (drained from sun-dried tomatoes)

• 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken (preferably chicken 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 fresh spinach

• 3 garlic cloves (chopped)

• 8 oz spaghetti pasta

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (use high-quality olive oil or oil from the sun-dried tomatoes jar)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Chicken and Vegetables:

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil (drained from the sun-dried tomatoes) over medium-low heat.

2. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and chopped chicken to the skillet. Season with red pepper flakes and salt.

3. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink, about 5 minutes.

Add Fresh Ingredients:

4. Add the chopped roma tomatoes, fresh basil, spinach, and chopped garlic to the skillet.

5. Cook on medium heat for 3-5 minutes, until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes release some of their juices. Remove from heat.

6. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, if needed. Cover the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Pasta:

7. Cook the spaghetti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

8. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables.

9. Reheat on low heat and mix everything well. Add more seasonings (salt and pepper) if desired. Remove from heat.

Finish and Serve:

10. If desired, drizzle with a little more high-quality olive oil or oil from the sun-dried tomatoes jar for added flavor. Mix well and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Version: Substitute the chicken with plant-based protein such as tofu or chickpeas, and use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast instead of cheese.

• Add Cheese: Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top for extra flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicier version.

• Different Veggies: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a veggie-packed variation.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they might cook a bit quicker than thighs, so be sure to check for doneness.

2. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute dried basil for fresh, but reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the spaghetti with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or linguine.

4. Can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Yes! Feel free to add extra vegetables like broccoli, artichokes, or even peas to the mix for added flavor and nutrition.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 2 days. Just cook the pasta and combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

6. How do I prevent the pasta from getting too sticky?

Make sure to toss the cooked pasta with a bit of olive oil or the sauce immediately after draining to prevent it from sticking together.

7. Can I freeze this dish?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1-2 months. When reheating, add a little water or broth to loosen the sauce.

8. Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach in place of fresh. Just thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet.

9. Can I make this dish without sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, you can omit the sun-dried tomatoes if you don’t have them, but they do add a unique, rich flavor. You can substitute with fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers.

10. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, for a dairy-free version, omit the cheese and use a dairy-free substitute like vegan Parmesan or simply enjoy it without cheese.

Conclusion

Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and Mediterranean-inspired ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes and basil creates a satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this pasta dish delivers on both taste and ease!

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