Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti

A bright, wholesome Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring juicy pan-seared chicken, fresh spinach, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a tangy tomato sauce—all tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti. Ready in under 30 minutes, this pasta brings comfort, freshness, and bold flavor to your table with minimal effort.

Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

Pasta

• 250g spaghetti
• Salt (for boiling)

Chicken & Sauce

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
• ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup reserved pasta water
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
3. Drain, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken strips, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked—about 5–6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

3. Sauté Garlic & Tomatoes

1. In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook 2–3 minutes, letting them soften and release their juices.

4. Build the Sauce

1. Pour in the tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes.
2. Add oregano and chili flakes.
3. Simmer for 3–4 minutes to let the flavors blend.
4. Add spinach and cook until just wilted.

5. Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
2. Add the spaghetti and toss gently with tongs.
3. Add a splash of pasta water (start with ¼ cup) to help the sauce cling to the pasta.
4. Cook everything together for 1–2 minutes until heated through.

6. Finish & Serve

1. Turn off the heat.
2. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan.
3. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
4. Serve immediately while hot and saucy.

Tips & Variations

Make It Creamy

• Add ¼ cup heavy cream or 2 tbsp cream cheese before adding spinach.

Make It Extra Saucy

• Add an additional ½ cup tomato sauce or a small splash of chicken broth.

Boost the Veggies

• Add mushrooms, zucchini, broccoli, or bell peppers.

Healthier Options

• Use whole-wheat, chickpea, or gluten-free pasta.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic bread
• Caesar or Greek salad
• Roasted veggies (asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli)
• Tomato-cucumber salad for extra freshness

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat with a splash of water or olive oil to restore moisture.

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs stay even juicier and add more flavor.

Can I make it spicier?
Add extra chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne.

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes—thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding.