What is comfort food? What’s a warm hug in your mouth? What’s the kind of dish that makes you feel good from the inside out? What is more important than you think? Is this a basic marinara pasta? What’s your take on spinach? I swear, my kids devour this stuff. They call it the “green noodle magic,” and I’m not arguing!
What is a tomato spinach chicken spaghetti?
What is Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti? What is essentially a one-pot wonder where tender chicken and vibrant spinach get cozy with spaghetti. In a rich tomato sauce. Think of it as an amped-up version of your favorite spaghetti dinner. What is that weeknight staple that everyone loves? What is that, but with extra protein and veggies sneakily hidden inside? Why does spinach wilt so quickly? I originally called it the “everything but the kitchen sink” spaghetti, but that didn’t exactly roll. What is the best way to get
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What I love about this Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is how incredibly flavorful it is. The tomato sauce is rich and tangy, the chicken is juicy, and the spinach adds a subtle earthy flavor. What is that sweetness that just ties everything together? I swear, it’s a symphony of flavors in your mouth! The secret? How can I get great canned tomatoes in San Marzano? What makes a difference?
Is it easy to make a weeknight dinner? What is the best thing to do in one pot, let it simmer, and boom! What are some of the most affordable ingredients to cook: chicken, spinach, pasta? Compared to ordering takeout, this is a real money-saver.
What are some ways to use chicken? Is it better to use ground turkey or sausage? What are some good ways to use red pepper flakes? Is it a bit like my lasagna recipe, comforting and filling, but without all the layering? My Lasagna never has chicken in it. I like to keep that vegetarian and go crazy on the cheese!
How do I make tomato spinach spaghetti?
Quick Overview
Is it easier to make Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti than takeout? What is the best way to cook chicken, add the sauce, spinach, spaghetti, and let it all simmer. Is it a good idea to cook pasta together until the pasta is cooked through and everything is coated in that delicious sauce? What’s the best thing about this one-pot wonder? I’ll be making this again and again.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- What is 1 pound spaghetti?
- 1 tablespoon olive oil. 1 teaspoon lemon juice.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- What is 1 teaspoon salt?
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. 1 teaspoon salt.
- 1 medium onion, chopped.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced.
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes. Is this
- What is the recipe for tomato sauce? 15 ounce
- 1 cup chicken broth. 1 tsp.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano per teaspoon.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil.
- What is the nutritional value of 5 ounces of
Optional, but recommended:
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving.
- Red pepper flakes, for serving (if you like a little kick)?
What are the steps in
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pot; you might need to do this in batches.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. I always do this step on medium heat because burnt garlic is the worst! It adds bitterness that’s hard to get rid of.
Step 3: Add Sauce & Seasonings
In a large bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Pour in the cooked pasta. Stir in the dried oregano and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a simmer. When I usually taste and adjust the seasonings. Sometimes I add a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic.
Step 4: Add Chicken & Spaghetti
Return the cooked chicken to the pot. If you like, break the spaghetti in half and add it to the pot. Make sure the spaghetti is mostly submerged in the sauce. If not, add a little more chicken broth or water. I’ve made the mistake of not having enough liquid before, and the spaghetti sticks to the bottom.
Step 5: Simmer & Stir
If the mixture is too thick, bring it back to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 15-20 minutes. Is the spaghetti cooked through? Stir occasionally to prevent the spaghetti from sticking.
Step 6: Add Spinach
Stir in fresh spinach. Cook until spinach is wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Don’t overcook spinach, or it will get mushy.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if desired). I like to serve it in big bowls with a side of crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce!
What should I serve it with?
Is this Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti a meal in itself? What are some good side salads to add to a salad? What is a Caesar salad?
What are some of the best Italian meals?Serve with garlic bread or bruschetta for a delicious appetizer.
For a cozy night in, please visit: http://www.How do you serve a glass of red wine with roaring fire?
If you’re feeling fancy, why don’tDrizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top for sweetness and acidity.
My family tradition is to always have extra Parmesan cheese on the table. No matter what I’m serving, I want people to be able to make it their own.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Don’t overcook the spaghetti: Nobody likes mushy spaghetti! Cook it until it’s al dente, meaning it’s still slightly firm to the bite.
Use high-quality canned tomatoes: As I mentioned before, San Marzano tomatoes are the best. They have a richer, sweeter flavor than other canned tomatoes.
Don’t skip the aromatics: The onion and garlic add so much flavor to the sauce. Make sure to cook them until they’re softened and fragrant.
Add a pinch of sugar (if needed): If your tomatoes are too acidic, a pinch of sugar will help to balance the flavors.
Don’t be afraid to experiment: This recipe is a blank canvas! Feel free to add other vegetables, herbs, or spices to your liking.
Make it ahead of time: This Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is even better the next day! The flavors have time to meld together and deepen. I do this frequently because it tastes so good for days after making it. Just like a soup or chili.
I learned that if I want my chicken extra tender, I lightly pound it before cutting it into pieces. It makes a huge difference!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving this Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as possible.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s best to use a container that’s not too big, so the spaghetti doesn’t dry out.
Freezer Instructions: You can also freeze this Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti for longer storage. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the spaghetti in the refrigerator overnight (if frozen). Then, heat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You might need to add a little water or chicken broth to the sauce if it’s too thick.
Glaze Timing Advice: Since there is no glaze in this recipe, it is not applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti is a winner every time! It’s easy, delicious, and budget-friendly – what more could you ask for? I truly hope you and your family enjoy it as much as mine does. If you’re a fan of this recipe, you absolutely HAVE to try my Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake; they’re both fantastic for a weeknight meal!
I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you make any fun variations, please share them with me – I’m always looking for new ideas! Happy cooking!
Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken Breast
- 10 oz Spaghetti
- 1 cup Chopped Tomatoes
- 5 oz Fresh Spinach
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions.
- While spaghetti cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned.
- Stir in garlic powder, tomatoes, and spinach. Cook until spinach is wilted.
- Drain spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Toss to combine.
- Serve immediately.
