There’s something irresistible about a bowl of creamy tomato chicken pasta—that perfect blend of tender chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and silky cream that clings to every twist of pasta. It’s the kind of dinner that satisfies everyone around the table. In this article, you’ll learn how to make this easy mix sauce pasta from scratch, discover tips for achieving the right balance of flavor, and explore creative variations like tomato pasta with chicken, spicy pasta recipes, and even bake pasta recipes. Whether you’re new to cooking or a home chef, this dish will quickly become your go-to food recipe for dinner pasta.
The Story Behind Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta
The weeknight pasta that never fails
Every cook has that one recipe that feels like a lifesaver after a long day. For many, it’s creamy tomato chicken pasta. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—every ingredient works hard to deliver a luxurious, restaurant-quality flavor without requiring much effort. A little butter, fresh tomatoes, and a touch of cream transform plain pasta into something indulgent yet balanced.
The flavor inspiration
This recipe combines two classic pasta approaches: the creaminess of Alfredo and the boldness of marinara. The result is a perfect mix sauce pasta that brings both comfort and spice to your plate. The chili powder and red chili flakes infuse warmth, while the parsley and mozzarella create that familiar Italian aroma. It’s the ultimate dish to bridge creamy and spicy pasta lovers—ideal for both quick dinners and special occasions.
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Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A quick and flavorful creamy tomato chicken pasta recipe ready in 30 minutes with spicy cream sauce and melted mozzarella.
Ingredients
8 oz rotini pasta
3 tbsp unsalted butter
1 lb boneless chicken breast, diced
2 tbsp chili powder
½ tsp red chili flakes
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 cup chopped tomatoes
6 green onions, chopped
½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
1. Cook rotini pasta until al dente; drain and set aside.
2. Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken, season with spices, and cook until done.
4. Add tomatoes, onions, and parsley; sauté 2 minutes.
5. Pour in cream and chicken broth; simmer until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in cooked pasta; toss to coat evenly.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese and garnish with parsley.
Notes
Use half-and-half for a lighter version.
Add spinach or mushrooms for variation.
Shred your own cheese for best results.
Reheat leftovers with a splash of broth or cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 733
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 706mg
- Fat: 41g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0.4g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 185mg
Mastering the Ingredients
Choosing the right pasta and chicken
While this tomato pasta with chicken works beautifully with rotini, feel free to try penne or fusilli. Their curves hold the sauce, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into even pieces. This guarantees they cook quickly and stay tender throughout the process.
Balancing the sauce
The heart of the recipe lies in the sauce—a luscious combination of butter, cream, and tomato. To get that ideal texture, start with a sauté of butter and chicken, then layer flavors with chili, herbs, and chopped tomatoes. Slowly adding the chicken broth before cream helps the sauce build depth. Finally, the shredded mozzarella ties everything together, giving your creamy tomato chicken pasta that signature stretch and glossy finish.
Pro Tip: Always taste your sauce before combining it with pasta. Adjust salt and chili levels to balance richness and spice. This flexibility allows you to transform it into a spicy pasta recipe or a milder family dinner.
How To Make Chicken Pasta Step-by-Step
Cooking the pasta perfectly
Start by boiling 8 ounces of rotini in salted water until it’s al dente—firm yet tender. This texture ensures your macaroni and chicken recipe doesn’t turn mushy when mixed with sauce. Drain and set aside while you prepare the chicken.
Building flavor in layers
In a large skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with chili powder, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir frequently until golden and fully cooked, about 5 minutes. Add chopped tomatoes, green onions, and parsley; sauté briefly to release their aroma.
Now pour in the cream and chicken broth. Bring to a light boil until the sauce thickens slightly. Toss in the cooked pasta, stir to coat evenly, and sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top. The cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy, cohesive texture that defines this different pasta dish. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Variations and Serving Ideas
Making it your own
This creamy tomato chicken pasta is endlessly customizable. Add spinach for color, mushrooms for depth, or bell peppers for sweetness. If you love heat, double the chili flakes for a bold spicy pasta recipe. For a baked version, transfer everything to an ovenproof dish, top with extra mozzarella, and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes until golden—an easy twist on bake pasta recipes.
Perfect pairings
Serve your food spaghetti or pasta dish with a crisp side salad or garlic bread to balance richness. A light white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the creamy sauce perfectly. The best part? Leftovers taste even better the next day. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream to restore the smooth, velvety texture.
Tips, Storage & Common Mistakes
Pro tips for perfection
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Always shred your mozzarella fresh for better melt quality.
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Use half-and-half instead of cream if you prefer a lighter texture.
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Cook pasta slightly underdone before mixing—it’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
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Don’t rush the simmer; it allows flavors to blend beautifully.
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Season in stages to maintain control over salt and spice.
Storage & reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, add a tablespoon of broth or cream to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving uncovered; gentle heat keeps the texture creamy. This recipe also freezes well—perfect for meal prepping food recipes for dinner pasta nights.
Common mistake: Overcooking the chicken can dry it out. Sear quickly, then let it finish in the sauce for a tender, juicy bite.
FAQ Section
Can I make creamy tomato chicken pasta ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the sauce and store it separately from the pasta. Combine them when ready to serve.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Absolutely. Choose crushed or diced tomatoes for convenience; just simmer longer for thickness.
How can I make it vegetarian?
Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I make it spicier?
Add extra chili flakes or a teaspoon of hot sauce for a fiery spicy pasta recipe variation.
What type of pasta works best?
Rotini holds sauce well, but penne, fusilli, or rigatoni also pair beautifully.
Conclusion
This creamy tomato chicken pasta brings together the best of both worlds—comfort and sophistication. Its creamy texture, spicy kick, and easy preparation make it a staple for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Whether you serve it freshly tossed, baked, or reheated, this dish delivers satisfaction in every bite. With just a few ingredients and smart technique, you’ll master a recipe that’s versatile, delicious, and guaranteed to impress.
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