Creamy Tomato and Chicken Pasta Delight

Few dishes are as universally loved as a creamy pasta with tender chicken and a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. This Creamy Tomato and Chicken Pasta Delight is comfort food elevated perfect for weeknight dinners, casual family meals, or impressing guests with minimal effort. With a luscious tomato-cream sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and aromatic herbs, this dish is hearty, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful.

Imagine twirling tender pasta coated in a velvety sauce, juicy bites of chicken, and the perfect hint of spice from chili flakes. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy cooks who crave a homemade meal that tastes gourmet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in about 30 minutes.
• Rich, creamy flavor – Tomato and cream combine for a silky sauce.
• Tender chicken pieces – Juicy and full of flavor.
• Balanced heat – Red chili flakes give a gentle kick without overpowering.
• Family-friendly – Loved by adults and kids alike.
• Customizable – Swap pasta types, add vegetables, or adjust seasonings.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves 4 people generously. Here’s a breakdown of each component:

Main Ingredients

• 10.5 oz (300 g) pasta – Use penne, fusilli, or your favorite short pasta to hold the sauce.
• 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces – Provides tender protein that absorbs the sauce’s flavors.

Fats & Aromatics

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter – Adds richness to the sauce.
• 1 small onion, finely diced – Adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped – Aromatic base for flavor.

Seasonings

• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes – Mild heat that enhances flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – Blend of herbs for a classic Italian flavor.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Balances and enhances all flavors.

Sauce Ingredients

• 1 ½ cup (300 ml) tomato puree (passata) – Forms a smooth, tangy base.
• 1 cup half and half (single cream) – Creates a creamy, silky texture.
• ½ cup (50 g) Parmesan, grated – Adds umami, depth, and a slight nuttiness.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – Brightens the dish and adds a fresh note.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large sauté pan or skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain and set aside, reserving ¼ cup pasta water for later.

2. Prepare the Chicken

• Heat olive oil and butter in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat.
• Add chicken pieces and cook until golden on all sides (5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics

• In the same pan, add diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
• Add chopped garlic and red chili flakes, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Build the Sauce

• Stir in Italian seasoning and cook briefly to release aroma.
• Add tomato puree and simmer for 3–5 minutes to concentrate flavor.
• Pour in half and half, stirring to combine and create a creamy consistency.
• Return chicken to the pan and coat with the sauce.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Add cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat evenly.
• If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
• Stir in grated Parmesan until melted and incorporated.

6. Final Touches

• Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
• Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

7. Serve & Enjoy

• Serve immediately in bowls or on a platter.
• Optional: Garnish with extra Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetable addition: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
• Spicier version: Increase red chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
• Cheese variations: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
• Make-ahead: Prepare sauce and chicken in advance; cook pasta and combine just before serving.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This dish is creamy, tangy, and subtly spicy, with tender chicken and al dente pasta providing balance.

Pairings

• Wine: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or a light Chianti
• Non-alcoholic: Sparkling water with lemon, or iced herbal tea
• Sides: Garlic bread, green salad, or roasted vegetables complement the richness

Nutritional Overview (per serving)

• Calories: ~550
• Protein: 35g
• Carbs: 50g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg

Dietary notes: can be made lighter by using low-fat cream or skipping butter, and naturally gluten-free if using GF pasta.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Chop vegetables and chicken in advance to reduce cooking time.
• Cook pasta ahead but undercook slightly; toss with a little olive oil and refrigerate.
• Sauce can be prepared ahead and reheated; combine with pasta just before serving.
• Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! Penne, fusilli, farfalle, or spaghetti all work well.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely. Thighs are juicier and add more richness.

3. How can I make it spicier?
Increase red chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

4. Can I make this dairy-free?
Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of half and half and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

5. Can this be frozen?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but the sauce and chicken can be frozen separately for up to 2 months. Reheat gently and combine with fresh pasta.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep ingredients	10 min
Cook pasta	10 min
Sauté chicken	5–7 min
Cook aromatics & build sauce	7–10 min
Combine pasta & finish	3–5 min
Total	~30 min

Serving Suggestions

• Serve in shallow bowls for a restaurant-style presentation.
• Sprinkle with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
• Pair with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetable Pasta Delight: Add zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for a nutrient boost.
2. Spicy Tomato Chicken Pasta: Double chili flakes and add hot paprika for a kick.
3. Cheesy Twist: Mix in mozzarella or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
4. Herb-forward: Add fresh basil or oregano to brighten the dish.

Ingredient Spotlight

Chicken Breast

Lean, tender, and versatile. Cut into even pieces to ensure consistent cooking.

Tomato Puree (Passata)

Provides smooth, rich tomato flavor and forms the base of the sauce. Choosing a high-quality passata makes a significant difference in taste.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Sear chicken well to develop flavor and prevent soggy texture.
• Don’t overcook pasta; al dente allows it to absorb the sauce better.
• Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water for perfect coating.
• Stir Parmesan in last to prevent curdling and maintain creamy texture.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze sauce and chicken separately for up to 2 months.
• Reheat gently to preserve creamy texture; avoid microwave overheating.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	550
Protein	35g
Carbs	50g
Fat	25g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	450mg

Expanded Conclusion

Creamy Tomato and Chicken Pasta Delight is comfort food at its finest — quick, easy, and deliciously indulgent. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta make it ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or a special weeknight treat. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that tastes gourmet but feels like home.

Serve hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley, a crisp salad, or some garlic bread for a complete meal. Once you try it, this creamy pasta will become a go-to in your recipe rotation.

Print