Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Spaghetti

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cups fresh spinach
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup reserved pasta water
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Creamy Sauce

• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.

2. Season the chicken: In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with olive oil, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

3. Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a plate.

4. Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Cook the tomatoes: Add the cherry tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and juicy.

6. Add the spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.

7. Prepare the creamy sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and cream cheese until smooth. Skip this step if you prefer a lighter, tomato-based sauce.

8. Combine the pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti and Parmesan cheese. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

9. Add the chicken: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet. Toss everything together and heat for 1–2 minutes.

10. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition Information

Estimated per serving, including the optional creamy sauce.

• Calories: 620 kcal
• Protein: 42 g
• Carbohydrates: 63 g
• Total Fat: 21 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 650–850 mg

Nutrition values vary depending on the ingredients and brands used.

Nut Information and Allergens

• Tree nuts: None in the listed ingredients.
• Peanuts: None in the listed ingredients.
• Dairy: Contains Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and cream cheese if the optional sauce is used.
• Gluten: Regular spaghetti contains wheat and gluten. Use certified gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Eggs: Some pasta varieties contain eggs; check the package label.
• Soy: Not intentionally included, but check packaged ingredients.
• Cross-contact: Check product labels and preparation surfaces for possible allergens.

This recipe is nut-free based on the listed ingredients, but always check product labels if preparing food for someone with a nut allergy.

Questions and Answers (Q&A)

Q1: Can I make this recipe without cream?

Yes. Skip the heavy cream and cream cheese, and use pasta water, olive oil, tomatoes, and Parmesan to create a light sauce.

Q2: Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes. Thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the skillet.

Q3: Can I use a different pasta?

Yes. Fettuccine, linguine, penne, or rotini work well.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.

Q5: How should I reheat the spaghetti?

Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or milk, stirring until warmed through.

Q6: Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes. Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Q7: Is this recipe low-carb?

Regular spaghetti is high in carbohydrates. For a lower-carb option, substitute zucchini noodles or low-carb pasta.

Q8: How do I keep the chicken juicy?

Slice the chicken evenly, avoid overcooking, and cook until the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C).

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic bread
• Fresh cucumber and tomato salad
• Roasted broccoli or zucchini
• Extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil