Name: Tomato Spinach Chicken Spaghetti
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups cherry tomatoes or 1 can diced tomatoes; 3 cups fresh spinach; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional); 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

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Tomato spinach chicken spaghetti is a simple, vibrant, and satisfying meal that brings together tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked spaghetti in one delicious dish. I love how it comes together quickly with ingredients I usually have on hand, and it’s hearty enough for dinner while still feeling light and fresh.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dish because it’s the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. The spaghetti is filling, the tomatoes add a bright burst of flavor, and the spinach gives it a healthy, green boost. The chicken soaks up all the savory goodness, and the garlic-tomato base is so flavorful, I don’t need a heavy sauce. It’s a weeknight-friendly recipe that tastes like something much fancier.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Spaghetti (or pasta of choice)
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Cherry tomatoes or diced tomatoes
Fresh spinach
Salt and pepper
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Directions

I start by boiling the spaghetti in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, I heat olive oil in a large skillet and sauté the chicken until golden and cooked through. I season it with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if I want a little heat.
I remove the chicken and in the same skillet, I sauté the garlic until fragrant, then toss in the tomatoes. I cook them until they start to burst and release their juices.
I add the spinach and stir until just wilted.
I return the chicken to the skillet and toss everything together.
I add the cooked spaghetti and a splash of pasta water to loosen everything up, stirring until well combined and heated through.
I finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese if I want some extra flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes roughly 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, making it a great 30-minute meal.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the chicken for shrimp or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian version. I’ve used sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh when I want a more intense flavor. If I want it creamy, I stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of cream cheese at the end. I also occasionally use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free spaghetti depending on who I’m serving.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. I store them in an airtight container and reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, I’ve used frozen spinach when fresh isn’t available. I thaw and drain it well before adding to the pan so the dish doesn’t get watery.

What type of tomatoes work best?

I usually use cherry or grape tomatoes for their sweetness, but canned diced tomatoes work just as well when I need something pantry-friendly.

Can I add more veggies?

Absolutely. I sometimes add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra variety and nutrition.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

I avoid overcooking it by slicing it thinly and cooking just until no longer pink inside. Resting it for a minute before tossing it back into the pasta helps too.

Is this dish spicy?

Only if I add red pepper flakes. I adjust the heat to my taste or leave them out for a milder version.

Conclusion

Tomato spinach chicken spaghetti is one of my favorite quick dinners—flavorful, colorful, and satisfying without being heavy. It’s an easy go-to for busy nights when I want something wholesome and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether I’m cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe always delivers.