Short Description

A comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, and al dente rotini pasta, all coated in a luscious creamy sauce and finished with melted mozzarella and fresh herbs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich & satisfying: A creamy tomato sauce brings warmth and depth.
One-skillet convenience: Simplicity at its best—minimal cleanup!
Customizable spice: Chili powder and flakes add a gentle kick.
Family favorite: Hearty, cheesy, and delicious for all ages.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz rotini pasta (uncooked)
3 Tbsp unsalted butter
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
2 Tbsp chili powder
½ tsp red chili flakes
½ tsp salt (or to taste)
¼ tsp pepper (or to taste)
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 or no sodium added)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions

Cook the pasta: Prepare rotini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add chicken pieces, sprinkle with chili powder, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is cooked through (≈ 5 minutes).
Add vegetables: Stir in chopped tomatoes, green onions, and parsley. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Build the sauce: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Combine with pasta: Add the cooked rotini to the skillet and gently stir to coat pasta and chicken in the creamy sauce.
Finish with cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese (and extra parsley if desired) over the top. Cover briefly until cheese melts.
Serve: Portion onto plates and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 generous portions
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20–25 minutes (including pasta)
Total time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

Cheese swap: Use cheddar or pepper jack instead of mozzarella for a sharper or spicier flavor.
Veggie boost: Add bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or peas for more nutrition.
Spice it up: Increase red chili flakes or add cayenne for extra heat.
Herb twist: Stir in fresh basil or oregano instead of or along with parsley.
Lighter option: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use Greek yogurt stirred in at the end (off-heat).

Storage/reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month.
Reheating:
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until warmed.
- Stovetop: Gently reheat on low, stirring and adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Penne, fusilli, or farfalle all work well—cook to al dente and add at the same step.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Absolutely—boneless, skinless thighs add more flavor and stay juicy.

3. What’s a substitute for heavy cream?

Use half-and-half for a lighter version, or mix milk with cream cheese in a pinch.

4. How can I make it vegetarian?

Omit the chicken and add chickpeas or a plant-based meat substitute.

5. My sauce is too thin—what can I do?

Simmer a few extra minutes to thicken, or whisk in 1 tsp of cornstarch slurry.

6. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes—cook pasta and chicken, then refrigerate separately. Combine and reheat when ready.

7. Does it freeze well?

Yes, though cheese may change texture. Stir in extra cream or broth when reheating.

8. Can I add extra vegetables?

Definitely! Broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers all make tasty additions—add during step 3.

9. How spicy is this dish?

Mild to medium. Adjust chili powder and flakes to your preferred heat level.

10. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes—use gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta is a cozy, flavorful, and versatile dinner that’s easy enough for weeknights yet satisfying enough for gatherings. With just one pan, tender chicken, pasta, and a rich creamy sauce, it’s customizable and takes little effort—making it a go-to crowd-pleaser. Try it as written or tailor it to your taste and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite.

Ezabella