Name: Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounce 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· 3.9 from 15 reviews

If you love pasta dishes that are bursting with flavor and wrapped in a luscious sauce, this Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food. It brings together tender chicken bites, vibrant tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a velvety cream sauce that clings perfectly to every twist of rotini pasta. Not only is it quick to make in about 30 minutes, but it also balances spice, creaminess, and freshness so well that every bite feels like a cozy celebration. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish shines with its irresistible blend of textures and flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows cooking ingredients neatly placed on a white marbled surface. From the top left, there is a clear glass bowl full of dry twisty pasta in a yellow color. Below it is a small white square dish with a small block of butter. Next to the pasta is another clear glass bowl with two raw light pink chicken pieces inside. Below it is a small white square dish with red chili flakes, to its right a white square dish with brown spice powder, and next to that is another white square dish with black pepper powder. To the right of the chicken bowl, several fresh green spring onions stand vertically next to three fresh red tomatoes with green stems. Below the tomato group is a small white pitcher filled with clear golden oil. Next to the butter dish is a small glass pitcher filled with white cream, beside it and lower are chopped white cheese pieces in a clear glass bowl. At the bottom of the image lies a bunch of fresh green parsley with broad leaves, arranged horizontally. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, fresh ingredients are the heart of this Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe. Each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and making the dish both hearty and comforting. From the kick of spices to the creaminess and the fresh finish of herbs, every ingredient is essential.

8 ounce rotini pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto the creamy sauce and pockets of tomato goodness.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps cook the chicken to golden perfection.
1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast: Tender protein cut into bite-size pieces for even cooking.
2 tablespoons chili powder: Gives a warm, smoky depth that elevates the flavor profile.
½ teaspoon red chili flakes: Adds a subtle spicy heat without overpowering the delicate creaminess.
½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper: Essential seasoning to balance all the flavors.
1 cup chopped tomatoes: Brings freshness and natural sweetness with a pop of color.
6 chopped green onions: Offers a mild onion flavor and a lovely crisp bite.
½ cup fresh chopped parsley: Adds a bright, herbaceous note to lighten the dish.
1 cup heavy cream (or half and half): Creates the irresistibly creamy texture that makes this pasta so indulgent.
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth: Balances the richness and brings savory depth.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy goodness on top.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente — that perfect balance between tender and firm to the bite. Drain it well and set aside so it’s ready to soak up all that delicious sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, which will give you a luscious base for cooking your chicken. Toss in the chicken pieces and sprinkle with chili powder, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook until the chicken is completely cooked through and no longer pink, usually about five minutes, so it stays juicy and flavorful.

Step 3: Add the Fresh Ingredients

Once the chicken is ready, add in the chopped tomatoes, green onions, and parsley. Stir everything together and cook for another two minutes. This step helps to soften the veggies while blending their fresh, vibrant flavors into the pan.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently as the mixture comes to a boil. This combination forms the luscious sauce that ties the entire dish together, balancing creaminess with a subtle savory tang.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Now it’s time to add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet. Stir carefully so each pasta piece is coated with the creamy tomato chicken sauce, making sure the flavors meld nicely in every bite.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Parsley

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top and, if you like, some extra chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve it warm so the cheese remains melty and gooey — this is the moment when this Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe truly shines.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe

A white bowl filled with spiral pasta mixed with chunks of cooked chicken and small pieces of red bell pepper. The pasta and chicken are coated in a creamy, orange-colored sauce with green herb flecks throughout. A gold fork is placed inside the bowl, resting on the pasta near the top right edge. This bowl is on a white marbled surface with scattered red chili flakes around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or even a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese can add an extra layer of freshness and richness. A drizzle of olive oil or a pinch of chili flakes can elevate the presentation and excite the taste buds further.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or some garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables also make a healthy and colorful side, balancing the warmth and creaminess of the pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this pasta in rustic bowls to showcase the vibrant colors and inviting sauce, or layer it in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and broil briefly for a bubbly golden crust. You can even scoop it into hollowed-out tomatoes or bell peppers for a fun twist on presentation that impresses guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container refrigerated for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers a tasty next-day meal.

Freezing

You can freeze the pasta, but note the texture may change slightly with reheating due to the cream and cheese. To freeze, cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and store for up to two months for best quality.

Reheating

When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat the pasta on the stove over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwaving works too but stir occasionally to keep it creamy and prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While rotini is perfect for catching the sauce, penne, fusilli, or even farfalle will work wonderfully. Just be sure to cook your pasta al dente to maintain the right texture.

Is it possible to make this dish with a dairy-free alternative?

Definitely. Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or an unsweetened plant-based cream, and use dairy-free cheese to keep the creamy texture without dairy. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, adding veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms will enhance nutrition and flavor. Add them when you add the tomatoes so they cook just right without losing their texture.

What spice level does this dish have?

This recipe has a moderate spice level from chili powder and flakes, which balance perfectly with the creaminess. You can adjust the amount of chili flakes to make it milder or spicier depending on your preference.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

To make it lighter, use half and half or milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese amount. Using whole wheat pasta or a smaller portion of pasta can also help keep it on the lighter side.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe is such a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. It’s one of those dishes that feels effortlessly special, combining simple ingredients into a creamy, flavorful meal that hits all the right notes. I encourage you to give it a try — it might just become your new favorite weeknight dinner!