Name: Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces rotini pasta (uncooked); 1 pound chicken breast (skinless and boneless, cut into bite size pieces); 2 tablespoons chili powder; ½ teaspoon red chili flakes; ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste); 1 cup tomatoes (chopped); 6 green onions (chopped); ½ cup parsley (fresh, chopped); 3 tablespoons butter (unsalted); 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half); ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium or no sodium added); 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 11 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, look no further than this Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of tender chicken, tangy tomatoes, and luscious cream sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked rotini pasta. Every forkful delivers rich flavors and comforting textures that are just unbeatable on a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a black pan filled with small, browned pieces of cooked chicken scattered evenly across the bottom. The chicken pieces vary in size and have a rich, dark brown color with crispy edges and some golden spots, indicating they are well-cooked and seasoned. The pan surface shows a slightly oily texture with bits of spices and seasoning spread around the chicken, giving a rustic and flavorful impression. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful blend of ingredients that come together to create a creamy, flavorful feast. Each component plays a vital role, from the juicy chicken pieces bringing hearty protein to the vibrant herbs adding freshness and color.

8 ounce rotini pasta: This spiraled pasta holds the sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.
3 tablespoons butter (unsalted): Adds richness and helps build the creamy base of the sauce.
1 pound chicken breast (skinless and boneless, cut into bite size pieces): Tender and protein-packed, perfect for quick cooking.
2 tablespoons chili powder: Brings a warm, smoky kick that complements the creaminess nicely.
½ teaspoon red chili flakes: Just enough heat to keep things interesting without overwhelming.
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste): Adds subtle earthiness and depth.
1 cup tomatoes (chopped): Freshness and a touch of acidity to balance out the richness.
6 green onions (chopped): Offers a mild onion flavor and bright green color contrast.
½ cup parsley (fresh, chopped): Bursts of herbal brightness that liven up the dish.
1 cup heavy cream (or half and half): The star ingredient for that irresistibly creamy sauce.
½ cup chicken broth (low sodium or no sodium added): Adds savory depth without overpowering the delicate creaminess.
1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded): Melted on top for gooey, cheesy goodness and a satisfying finish.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

The very first step sets the stage for the entire dish. Boil your rotini pasta according to the package, aiming for al dente—that perfect bite that’s firm but not hard. Drain it well and keep it aside so it’s ready to soak up that luscious sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken with Spices

Heat your butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until melted and bubbling. Toss in your bite-sized chicken pieces and sprinkle with chili powder, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper. This spice mix gives the chicken a cozy, smoky warmth. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about five minutes—this quick sear locks in juiciness and flavor.

Step 3: Add Fresh Veggies

Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, stir in chopped tomatoes, green onions, and fresh parsley. These veggies add a fresh, vibrant dimension and a lovely burst of color. Cook everything together for two more minutes to marry all those garden-fresh flavors.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in your heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This is where the magic happens—watch as the liquid begins to thicken into a silky smooth sauce that’ll generously coat every piece of pasta and chicken.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Now it’s time to bring it all together. Add the cooked rotini straight into the sauce and stir well to ensure every spiral is drenched in creamy tomato goodness. Finally, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top—let it melt into a gooey, dreamy finish. If you like, add a few more fresh parsley flakes over the top for that final pop of color and flavor.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe

A white bowl filled with twisted pasta coated in a thick, creamy orange sauce, mixed with chunks of cooked chicken that have a slightly browned texture. Small flecks of green herbs and bits of red bell pepper are scattered throughout the pasta. A gold fork rests inside the bowl near the top right edge, with its handle extending out. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with some red chili flakes sprinkled around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Elevate your dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few extra green onion slices for a bright, fresh accent. A little grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil can also add a lovely touch of richness and subtle complexity.

Side Dishes

This creamy tomato chicken pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm crusty baguette are perfect choices for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve this dish in individual shallow bowls garnished with edible flowers or a scattering of toasted pine nuts for added texture. You could also tuck it into colorful pasta cups or serve alongside roasted vegetables for a vibrant, visually appealing meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy tomato chicken pasta will keep well for up to three days, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal or next-day lunch.

Freezing

This dish freezes nicely, especially if you want to batch cook. Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to two months. Just be aware that fresh herbs and cheese might lose a little texture upon thawing but the flavors remain delicious.

Reheating

To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce’s silky consistency. Stir gently until heated through, making sure not to boil, which can cause the cream to curdle.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is ideal for catching the sauce, penne, fusilli, or farfalle will work wonderfully too. Just make sure to cook it al dente to maintain the best texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can swap heavy cream for coconut milk or a cashew cream alternative, and use a dairy-free cheese substitute for topping. The flavor will be slightly different but still creamy and satisfying.

How spicy is this pasta?

The chili powder and red chili flakes give a gentle kick that warms without overwhelming. Adjust the amount to your preference for spiciness or omit the chili flakes for a milder version.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless skinless chicken thighs offer a richer, juicier bite and are a great alternative. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely. It reheats beautifully and maintains its flavor and texture well, making it a great choice for preparing lunches or quick dinners ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a well-made creamy tomato chicken pasta, and this Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe nails it in every way. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s a dish that invites smiles all around the table. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight winner!