When it comes to comfort food, Chicken Pasta in Tomato Sauce takes the crown. Picture tender pieces of chicken mingling with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a rich, aromatic tomato sauce that dances on your taste buds. The smell wafting through your kitchen will entice even the pickiest eaters, making them rush to the table like moths to a flame.
This dish is more than just a meal; it’s nostalgia on a plate. I remember my mom whipping this up after long school days, filling our home with warmth and love. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a last-minute gathering with friends, this Chicken Pasta in Tomato Sauce is perfect for any occasion. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Chicken Pasta in Tomato Sauce
- This incredible Chicken Pasta in Tomato Sauce transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
Every time I make this dish, my friends rave about how delicious it is, and I always feel like a culinary superstar!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Pasta of Your Choice: Spaghetti or penne work great; just choose what you love best.
Canned Tomatoes: Opt for San Marzano tomatoes if you want to elevate the sauce’s flavor.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; don’t skip this step!
Italian Seasoning: Use a blend of dried herbs for that classic Italian flair.
Olive Oil: A splash of good olive oil enhances richness and flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese gives the perfect finishing touch; trust me on this one!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Pasta in Tomato Sauce
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your onion and mincing the garlic. This way, you can easily toss everything together without breaking a sweat.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté your onions until they turn translucent and sweet-smelling. Then add minced garlic and stir until fragrant.
Add the Chicken: Toss in bite-sized pieces of chicken breast into the skillet. Cook until browned on all sides—about 5-7 minutes—while enjoying the delightful aroma filling your kitchen.
Make the Sauce: Pour in those canned tomatoes along with Italian seasoning. Let everything simmer together so that flavors meld beautifully—approximately 15 minutes should do.
Cook Your Pasta: While your sauce simmers away happily, boil water in another pot and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it well.
Toss Everything Together: Finally, mix your cooked pasta with that gorgeous tomato sauce and chicken combo. Stir gently to coat every piece evenly before serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.
And there you have it! A delightful Chicken Pasta in Tomato Sauce that’s not only delicious but also quick enough to whip up after a long day at work or school. Enjoy!
You Must Know About Chicken Pasta in Tomato Sauce
- This showstopping Chicken Pasta in Tomato Sauce delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first until golden brown, then cook the pasta while preparing the rich tomato sauce. This method ensures everything is perfectly timed and reduces stress in the kitchen.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add veggies like spinach and bell peppers for added nutrition. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can bring delightful heat to your sauce!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep it saucy.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Chicken Pasta in Tomato Sauce
- This professional-quality Chicken Pasta in Tomato Sauce relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
Cooking this dish takes practice, but once my friend made it perfectly, she couldn’t stop raving about how her family devoured every last bite together—definitely a proud moment!
FAQ
What type of pasta works best with Chicken Pasta in Tomato Sauce?
While any pasta can work, penne or fusilli are great choices as they hold onto the sauce well. These shapes create a satisfying bite and help distribute flavors evenly across each forkful.
Can I make Chicken Pasta in Tomato Sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything except for cooking the pasta ahead of time. Store your chicken and sauce separately, then combine when ready to eat for best results.
How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, cut into it—the juices should run clear without any pinkness.
Can I freeze Chicken Pasta in Tomato Sauce?
Yes! Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers after cooling completely. It’s best enjoyed within three months; simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion for Chicken Pasta in Tomato Sauce
In wrapping up this culinary journey with Chicken Pasta in Tomato Sauce, remember that timing is crucial for perfect execution. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients and enjoy leftovers for quick meals later on! With these tips under your belt, you’re ready to serve up a comforting dish that will please everyone around your table.
Chicken Pasta in Tomato Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of Chicken Pasta in Tomato Sauce, a heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken and al dente pasta enveloped in a savory tomato sauce. This recipe not only evokes nostalgia but also guarantees an explosion of flavors that will leave your family and friends clamoring for more. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
- 28 oz canned San Marzano tomatoes
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent, then add minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add bite-sized pieces of chicken breast to the skillet and cook until browned (approximately 5-7 minutes).
- Pour in canned tomatoes and stir in Italian seasoning. Let simmer for about 15 minutes to blend flavors.
- Meanwhile, boil water in a separate pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain well.
- Combine cooked pasta with the tomato sauce and chicken mixture, stirring gently to coat evenly. Serve topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
