If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful combination brings together tender chicken, a luscious tomato cream sauce, and perfectly cooked rotini pasta, creating a meal that’s both comforting and packed with vibrant flavors. Every bite bursts with just the right amount of spice and creaminess, turning a simple weeknight dinner into something truly special. It’s a recipe that feels fancy but comes together with ease, making it a fast favorite for family dinners or when friends drop by unexpectedly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, each adding essential flavor, texture, or color to this dish. From the creamy richness of heavy cream to the gentle heat of chili powder, every component plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance you’ll love.
- 8 ounces rotini pasta: This corkscrew-shaped pasta holds onto sauce beautifully, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken evenly.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and easy eating.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: Brings a gentle smoky, spicy warmth that brightens the dish.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a subtle kick without overpowering the creamy sauce.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds hint of heat and earthiness.
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes: Provides fresh acidity and color contrast to the creamy base.
- 6 green onions, chopped: Delivers a mild onion crunch and vibrant green color.
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds herbal brightness and freshness that cuts through the richness.
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half): The star that makes the sauce irresistibly creamy and smooth.
- ½ cup low-sodium or no-sodium chicken broth: Boosts flavor depth while keeping the sauce light.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top, adding gooey texture and mild taste.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. This ensures the pasta has just the right amount of bite to hold up against the creamy sauce without getting mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter and add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Sprinkle in the chili powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cooking the chicken in butter helps develop a subtle richness while the spices infuse vibrant flavor. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the center, making sure it’s nicely browned on the outside for added texture.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Next, stir in the chopped tomatoes, green onions, and fresh parsley. Let these cook together for about two minutes to meld the fresh, bright flavors with the chicken. Then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. This step transforms the skillet into a creamy, dreamy tomato sauce that clings beautifully to each pasta piece.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Finally, add the cooked rotini to the skillet, carefully stirring to coat every spiral in the luscious sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top and allow it to melt into gooey perfection. For an extra pop of freshness and color, add a little more chopped parsley before serving. This last touch ties the whole dish together in an irresistible way.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish, fresh herbs like parsley or basil work wonders as garnishes. They add a fresh contrast to the creamy tomato sauce and give your plate a beautiful finish. A light sprinkle of extra mozzarella or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also dial up the flavor if you love a little extra zing.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices are also fantastic for scooping up every last bit of that creamy sauce. Steamed or roasted veggies like broccoli or asparagus add color and a healthy touch to round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh herbs. You can also bake it briefly in a casserole dish with extra mozzarella on top until golden and bubbly for a comforting baked pasta experience that’s perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this dish store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully as it rests, making your next meal just as delicious.
Freezing
If you want to freeze it, place the creamy tomato chicken pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. Be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to refresh the sauce and keep it creamy. Stir often for even warming without drying out the chicken or pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is perfect for capturing the sauce with its twists, penne, fusilli, or even farfalle work beautifully in this recipe. Just stick to similar cooking times to keep that nice al dente texture.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, half and half works just fine, or you can try mixing milk with a little bit of cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Keep in mind the sauce will be slightly less rich but still delicious.
How spicy is this Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe?
It has a gentle, pleasant heat from the chili powder and red pepper flakes that balances the creaminess nicely. You can always adjust the spice levels by reducing or increasing these ingredients to suit your taste.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with olive oil, use a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, and swap mozzarella for a dairy-free cheese to make a creamy, tomato-rich version that works for dairy-free diets.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly after adding cheese?
It is freezer-friendly, but the texture of melted mozzarella can change slightly after freezing and reheating. If planning to freeze, you might prefer adding the cheese fresh after reheating for the best texture and melt.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about a dish that combines simplicity, comfort, and vibrant flavor all in one pot. The Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly that kind of meal — quick to prepare, easy to love, and perfect for any night you want something cozy and truly delicious. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how it might just become your new go-to pasta dinner!
