Welcome to your next go-to meal: the delicious tomato spinach chicken spaghetti! This dish is full of the bright flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh spinach. It’s a healthy choice for busy weeknights. Tender chicken and perfectly cooked spaghetti come together in a tangy sauce.
It only takes 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. So, you can enjoy this easy chicken spaghetti in about 30 minutes. With a rating of 4.67 out of 5 from 880 votes, it’s a family favorite. It’s also a nutritious option, with just 532 calories per serving.
Ingredients:
8 oz (225g) spaghetti
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 chicken breasts, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups fresh spinach, packed
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Directions:
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper.
Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they begin to soften.
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, cooking just until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Key Takeaways
- Quick and easy recipe perfect for weeknights.
- Healthy ingredients make it a nutritious choice.
- Only 30 minutes total to prepare and cook.
- Can serve up to 4 people with 532 calories per serving.
- Versatile dish that can be customized with various vegetables.
Introduction to Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Tomato spinach chicken spaghetti is a mix of flavors and nutrition. It has tender chicken, fresh spinach, and rich tomato sauce wrapped in spaghetti. This dish is a balanced and healthy meal that can be made in 30 minutes.
Spinach adds texture and health benefits to the dish. It’s full of vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes bring essential antioxidants. Together, these ingredients create a tasty meal. Cooking chicken to 165°F makes it tender and safe, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients for Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Starting with the right ingredients is key to making a delicious chicken spaghetti meal. Fresh components boost the flavors and add nutrition. This makes your homemade chicken spaghetti both tasty and healthy. Here are the must-have ingredients for this yummy dish.
Fresh Ingredients to Enhance Flavor
Fresh ingredients take your tomato spinach chicken spaghetti to the next level. You’ll need:
- 1/2 lb (225g) chicken breast
- 4 Roma tomatoes, diced
- 8 oz (225g) fresh spinach
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 8 oz (225g) rotini pasta
- 1/4 cup (125ml) chicken stock
Optional ingredients to boost flavor include:
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh cracked pepper
Substitutions and Alternatives
Being flexible with your recipe lets you try new things. Here are some substitutions:
- Rotisserie chicken adds flavor and saves time.
- Whole wheat pasta increases fiber and protein.
- For gluten-free, use brown-rice penne pasta.
Add extra veggies like asparagus or broccoli for more nutrition. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or skillet. Get creative in the kitchen and enjoy a meal everyone will love.
Health Benefits of Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
This dish is not just tasty but also packed with health benefits. It combines tomatoes, spinach, and chicken. These ingredients provide essential nutrients for a balanced diet.
Nutritional Value of Key Ingredients
Chicken breast is the star of this recipe, offering 41.5 grams of protein per serving. It’s a complete protein source that gives you all the amino acids your body needs. Plus, San Remo gluten-free pasta is 98% fat-free, making it a great choice for a lighter meal without losing flavor.
This dish has about 487 calories per serving, fitting easily into a healthy diet. Spinach adds a boost of vitamins A and C, along with minerals like iron and calcium. This mix makes the dish both delicious and nutritious.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 487 |
| Protein | 41.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fat | 13g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 298mg |
| Iron | 3mg |
| Vitamin A | 3230 IU |
| Calcium | 75mg |
Why Spinach is a Superfood
Spinach is a superfood known for boosting immunity and reducing inflammation. It’s full of iron, which helps make red blood cells and prevents anemia. Adding spinach to your meals can greatly improve your health and support your body’s functions.
Spinach chicken pasta is a great way to get your daily vitamins and enjoy a satisfying meal. This healthy chicken spaghetti recipe offers many benefits for your health as you enjoy your meal.
Preparing Your Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Making the perfect tomato spinach chicken spaghetti takes care and focus. It’s important to cook the chicken right and pick the right pasta. This ensures the dish tastes great and feels good to eat.
Cooking Chicken: Tips and Techniques
For your easy chicken spaghetti, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Season it with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Cook the chicken on medium heat for 6-8 minutes on each side. This makes sure it’s fully cooked but not dry.
After cooking, shred the chicken with two forks. Then, mix it into your sauce for a delicious blend.
Choosing the Right Pasta
The type of pasta you use can change how you enjoy your tomato spinach pasta. Traditional spaghetti works well, but you can also try whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Make sure to cook the pasta until it’s al dente, which usually takes 8-10 minutes.
This texture lets the pasta soak up the flavors of the tomato sauce and seasonings. It makes the dish even more enjoyable.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Cooking tomato spinach chicken spaghetti needs careful attention to each part. Follow these steps for a flavorful and perfectly cooked dish.
Cooking the Chicken and Vegetables
Begin by seasoning two boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets with salt and pepper. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 7 to 10 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
In the same skillet, add one diced onion and two minced garlic cloves. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and baby spinach. Stir for about 3-5 minutes until the spinach is wilted and all the vegetables are well combined.
Cooking the Pasta to Perfection
While the chicken and vegetables cook, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of spaghetti pasta to the boiling water. Cook the pasta to al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes, following the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use.
Combine the cooked pasta with the chicken and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Add a cup of heavy cream, a can of diced tomatoes with green chiles, and Italian seasoning. Stir well, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if the mixture is too thick.
This tomato spinach chicken spaghetti will delight everyone at the table. This step-by-step guide ensures a seamless cooking experience. Embrace the delicious flavors, and enjoy your wonderful meal!
Serving Suggestions for Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Make your tomato spinach chicken spaghetti stand out with creative serving ideas. Pair it with crusty bread or buttered garlic bread for a classic touch. These sides add texture and enhance the meal.
Perfect Pairings: Sides and Appetizers
Boost your chicken spaghetti with light appetizers and sides. Here are some ideas:
- Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette balances the dish’s richness. Add cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions for crunch.
- Antipasto Platter: Serve an antipasto platter with olives, marinated vegetables, and assorted cheeses. It prepares your palate for the main course.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted vegetables for nutrition and flavor. Choose bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for color.
For a great look, serve the dish in a large, shallow dish. Top it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil. This boosts flavor and makes the meal look inviting.
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Try these tips next time you make this tasty dish. It makes meals nutritious and fun for you and your family.
Variations of Chicken Spaghetti Recipes
Exploring different chicken spaghetti recipes can make your meals more exciting and creative. By adding new twists to the classic tomato chicken pasta, you can enjoy new flavors while keeping the nutrition. These suggestions are great for different tastes and diets.
Italian Chicken Spaghetti Twist
For an Italian twist, add herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary to your chicken spaghetti. A bit of crushed red pepper can also enhance the taste. Traditional Italian cheeses like Parmesan or bocconcini add a creamy touch.
Using high-quality olive oil makes the sauce richer. This turns your tomato chicken pasta into a true Italian dish. It’s perfect for any pasta lover.
Vegetable Add-Ins for Extra Nutrition
Adding vegetables to your chicken spaghetti makes it colorful and more nutritious. Try using bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Stir-frying asparagus, broccoli, or carrots adds a nice crunch.
These vegetables can make your dish more appealing to kids. With some planning, you can make a meal that’s both tasty and healthy for your family.
Using Leftovers: Creative Ideas
Leftover Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is perfect for making new meals and reducing waste. It’s fun and practical to repurpose this dish. With a few creative ideas, you can turn your easy chicken spaghetti into something new and exciting.
Reheating Tips for Best Results
It’s important to keep the flavor and quality when reheating. Here are some tips:
- Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to evenly distribute heat.
- Add a splash of water or broth to keep the dish moist while reheating.
- Use a skillet on low heat for a crispy texture, ensuring even warming without drying out the pasta.
Transforming Leftovers Into New Dishes
Your healthy chicken spaghetti can become several tasty meals. Here are some ideas:
- Spaghetti Casserole: Mix 8 ounces of leftover spaghetti noodles with sautéed veggies, another pasta type like penne or rigatoni, and your favorite cheese.
- Pasta Salad: Combine leftover spaghetti with fresh veggies, a drizzle of olive oil, and your favorite dressing for a light meal.
- Wraps: Fill tortillas with spaghetti, add some greens, and enjoy a convenient lunch.
- Stuffed Peppers: Use leftover spaghetti as a filling for bell peppers, adding extra protein like shredded chicken or ground beef.
These ideas not only improve the taste but also keep the nutritional value of your easy chicken spaghetti. Leftover spaghetti can last up to four days in the fridge, making meal prep easier.
Tips for Making Delicious Chicken Spaghetti
Start with top-notch ingredients for a memorable chicken spaghetti. Choose fresh veggies, premium olive oil, and quality pasta. This ensures your dish tastes great and is nutritious.
Choosing Quality Ingredients
Go for fresh, organic veggies for your dish. Ripe tomatoes, bright spinach, and garlic are key to a great taste. Extra virgin olive oil adds richness to your sauce. Don’t forget these key ingredients:
- Fresh spinach – for color and nutrients
- Roma tomatoes – for a rich tomato base
- High-protein chicken – to keep you satisfied
- Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta options – catering to dietary preferences
Enhancing with Herbs and Spices
Herbs and spices can make your dish stand out. Add fresh basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes to customize your chicken spaghetti. Here’s what to use:
- 1 tablespoon of dried oregano for depth
- 2 cloves of minced garlic for aromatic richness
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
- 1 cup of fresh basil leaves for freshness
These additions boost flavor and nutrition in your chicken spaghetti. Enjoying quality meals is good for your health as you enjoy this tasty dish.
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| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 532 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 51 g |
| Protein | 21 g |
| Fat | 27 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Cholesterol | 42 mg |
| Sodium | 401 mg |
| Potassium | 941 mg |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Vitamin A | 121.8 IU |
| Vitamin C | 35.2 mg |
| Calcium | 9.5 mg |
| Iron | 20.5 mg |
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Spaghetti
Cooking a tasty tomato spinach chicken spaghetti can be tricky, especially for beginners. Knowing the common mistakes can make your dish much better.
- Overcooking or undercooking pasta is a big mistake. It should be cooked until it still has a bit of bite, known as ‘al dente’.
- If you live at a high elevation, you might need to adjust the cooking times for pasta.
- Stirring the pasta while it cooks stops it from clumping. This way, every strand cooks evenly.
- Don’t add oil or butter to the pasta water because it doesn’t stop sticking. Stirring often is a better way to prevent clumping.
- Use water with enough salt for cooking pasta. This makes the pasta taste better when you mix it with the tomato spinach chicken spaghetti.
- Don’t rinse cooked pasta with cold water because it removes the starch. This starch is what helps sauces stick to the pasta. Instead, toss the pasta with oil.
- Add some of the pasta cooking liquid to your sauce. This liquid has starch that helps the sauce stick to the pasta.
Avoiding these mistakes can make your chicken spaghetti recipe stand out. Paying attention to cooking techniques will give you a dish that everyone will enjoy.
Storing Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Storing your homemade chicken spaghetti right keeps its flavor and freshness. You want every bite to taste as good as when it was new. Here are some tips for keeping your tomato spinach pasta fresh.
Best Practices for Food Storage
To keep your tomato spinach chicken spaghetti fresh, follow these steps:
- Cool the dish to room temperature before storing.
- Use airtight containers to keep out moisture and bad smells.
- Label containers with the date to know when they were stored.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
How to Freeze Chicken Spaghetti
Freezing is a great way to keep your homemade chicken spaghetti longer. Here’s how:
- Let the dish cool down before freezing.
- Divide the spaghetti into single servings for easy reheating.
- Wrap each serving in plastic wrap, then foil.
- Put the wrapped servings into freezer-safe bags and suck out the air.
- Label the bags with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To enjoy your frozen tomato spinach chicken spaghetti, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave to make it taste fresh again.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Calories | Carbohydrates | Protein | Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Potassium | Fiber | Sugar | Vitamin A | Vitamin C | Calcium | Iron |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Homemade Chicken Spaghetti | 420 | 54g | 32g | 11g | 3g | 836mg | 4096mg | 3626mg | 8g | 7g | 16686IU | 79mg | 752mg | 10mg |
Pairing Wine with Your Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Finding the perfect wine to go with your chicken spaghetti can make your meal even better. The right wine can balance the acidity and enhance the flavors of tomato chicken pasta.
For dishes with tomato-based sauces, a tart red wine is a good choice. Some top picks include:
- Primitivo (Zinfandel)
- Montepulciano d’Abruzzo
- Sangiovese (Chianti)
- Cannonau (Grenache)
- Negroamaro
- Nero d’Avola
- Rhône blends
If your dish has roasted tomatoes, Primitivo is a great match because it’s not too strong. For cheese pasta, go for white wines. Trebbiano or Chardonnay, aged in oak, are perfect choices.
There are many wines to choose from. For seafood pasta, light to medium-bodied white wines are best. For tomato-based seafood pasta, try rosato or Italian rosé.
Here’s a table with more wine pairing ideas:
| Dish Type | Wine Suggestions |
|---|---|
| Tomato Chicken Pasta | Primitivo, Sangiovese, Chianti |
| Cheese Pasta | Trebbiano, Chardonnay, Ribolla Gialla |
| Seafood Pasta | Pinot Grigio, Vinho Verde, Rosato |
| Pesto Pasta | Sauvignon Blanc, Vermentino |
| Veggie Primavera | Soave, Greco di Tufo |
Choosing the right wine can make your tomato spinach chicken spaghetti even better. A good wine can turn any meal into a special event.
Why This Recipe Will Become a Family Favorite
This Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is a hit with its mix of flavors and colors. It’s easy to make, perfect for busy nights. Everyone, kids and adults, will love it when you serve it.
Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner
This recipe is a breeze, ready in just 30 minutes. It’s simple to make, even for beginners. Prep takes 15 minutes, and cooking another 15, and you have a meal ready.
Kid-Friendly Aspects of the Dish
Kids love meals that look and taste good. This dish has bright green spinach and juicy tomatoes. It’s tasty, thanks to the chicken and sauce, and healthy with spinach.
It makes six servings, great for big families or leftovers. It’s nutritious and has a 4.9-star rating. This dish is sure to be a family favorite.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breast | 1.5 lbs |
| Spaghetti | 1 lb |
| Fresh baby spinach | 5 oz |
| Fire-roasted diced tomatoes | 14.5 oz can |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tbsp + 1/2 cup |
| Garlic cloves | 7, minced |
| Chopped green onions | 7-8 |
| Basil leaves (for garnish) | 20 large |
| Toasted pine nuts (optional) | 2 tbsp |
How to Make the Dish More Affordable
Making tomato spinach chicken spaghetti affordable can make your meals better and help your budget. Here are some tips to make healthy chicken spaghetti without spending a lot.
Cost Breakdown: Knowing the cost of ingredients like spaghetti, chicken breasts, and spinach is key to understanding the dish’s price. Here’s a breakdown for four servings:
| Ingredient | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | $1.50 |
| Chicken Breasts | $6.00 |
| Spinach | $1.00 |
| Cheese (Monterey Jack & Parmesan) | $2.50 |
| Other Ingredients | $3.00 |
| Total Cost | $14.00 |
| Cost Per Serving | $3.50 |
Buying in bulk or choosing store brands can cut costs by 10-30%. Using seasonal veggies also makes the dish tastier and cheaper.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Using frozen spinach instead of fresh can save up to 50% and still keep the nutrition.
- Leftovers as Potential Savings: This recipe makes four servings, each with 330 calories. Eating leftovers can save money and stretch your meals.
- Prepping Ahead: Planning meals early and using sales can get you ingredients cheaper, keeping the dish affordable.
Cooking at home is not just cheaper but also healthier than buying pre-made meals. This healthy chicken spaghetti is a complete meal full of protein and fiber without breaking the bank. Enjoy making a tasty, budget-friendly meal that everyone will love!
Conclusion
The tomato spinach chicken spaghetti is more than just a meal. It’s a celebration of fresh ingredients that come together in a delicious way. With chicken breasts, sun-dried tomatoes, and vibrant spinach, you make a dish that’s both flavorful and comforting. It’s perfect for any occasion.
This homemade chicken spaghetti is also a quick meal, ready in about 15-20 minutes. It’s ideal for busy weeknights. The convenience of kelp noodles makes cooking easier, skipping the need to boil pasta. This dish is versatile, fitting various dietary needs like vegetarian or gluten-free options.
It’s a great choice for family dinners. It caters to different tastes and ensures a nutritious meal for everyone. We encourage you to try this tomato spinach chicken spaghetti and explore its variations. Don’t hesitate to share your own twists on the recipe.
Engaging with this dish not only improves your cooking skills but also creates memorable dining experiences. It’s a way to bond with your loved ones over a delicious meal.
FAQ
What is Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti?
Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is a tasty and healthy dish. It combines fresh spinach and tomatoes with tender chicken and perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s an easy recipe for a quick dinner.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
For a healthier version, use whole wheat pasta and add more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. Choose grilled or baked chicken instead of fried.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken saves time and makes the dish easier to prepare.
What are some good side dishes to serve with Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti?
Serve it with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a light salad. These options complement the dish’s flavors well.
How do I store leftovers of this dish?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it, just thaw and reheat to keep the flavors.
What wine pairs well with Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti?
Pair it with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. Or choose a light red wine, such as Chianti, for a better taste.
Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?
Yes, skip the chicken and add more veggies or use chickpeas or beans for a vegetarian version.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish’s parts ahead and combine them just before serving for a quick, tasty meal.
Is Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s great for kids and adults with its colorful ingredients and comforting taste.