Cozy, comforting, and ready in just 30 minutes, this Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Juicy chicken pieces, tender rotini pasta, and a rich, flavorful tomato cream sauce come together in one skillet for a meal that tastes like a restaurant favorite but comes together in record time. Serve with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast & Easy: On the table in just 30 minutes, faster than delivery.
- Rich & Flavorful: Creamy tomato sauce with just the right touch of spice.
- Pantry-Friendly: Uses simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have.
- Kid & Adult Approved: A creamy pasta everyone will love.
- Leftovers Friendly: Flavors develop even more the next day.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta of choice)
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- ½ tsp red chili flakes
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
For the Sauce
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 6 green onions, chopped
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and season with chili powder, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and lightly golden.
- Make the Sauce: Add chopped tomatoes, green onions, and parsley. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the cream and chicken broth, stirring gently. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce: Add the cooked rotini to the skillet and toss everything together so the pasta is coated in the creamy tomato sauce.
- Add Cheese & Serve: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the pasta and stir until melted and creamy. Garnish with extra parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Add Veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini are great additions.
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents and doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Leftovers: Reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and cook pasta fresh when ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp, green salad balances the richness of the pasta.
- Steamed Vegetables: Add broccoli or asparagus for a colorful, nutritious side.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 733 kcal
- Protein: 42 g
- Carbs: 50 g
- Fat: 41 g
- Fiber: 4 g
This Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta is a simple, comforting, and crowd-pleasing weeknight dinner. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want a home-cooked meal without the hassle.