Roasted Tomato Spinach Pasta with Garlic Chicken

Description:

This vibrant pasta dish features sweet roasted tomatoes and fresh spinach tossed in a light olive oil sauce, paired perfectly with tender garlic-seasoned chicken. It’s a nutritious and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare for weeknights or casual gatherings.

Origin:

Combining simple Mediterranean ingredients, this recipe draws inspiration from Italian cooking traditions where fresh produce and garlic-infused olive oil shine. Roasting the tomatoes intensifies their sweetness, making the pasta both comforting and refreshing.

Ingredients (Quantities):

For the Roasted Tomatoes:

2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

For the Garlic Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta and Spinach:

8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite)
3 cups fresh spinach
1 tablespoon olive oil
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Optional Ingredients:

Red pepper flakes (for heat)
Lemon zest or juice (for brightness)
Pine nuts or toasted walnuts (for crunch)
Cream or crème fraîche (for a creamy finish)

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss halved tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.
Roast tomatoes for 20-25 minutes, until softened and slightly caramelized.
Meanwhile, bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare garlic chicken: Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest a few minutes, then slice thinly.
In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add fresh spinach and sauté until just wilted.
Add cooked pasta and roasted tomatoes to the spinach. Toss gently to combine and warm through.
Stir in Parmesan cheese if using. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve pasta topped with sliced garlic chicken and garnish with fresh herbs.

Tips for Success:

Roast tomatoes until caramelized but not burnt for maximum sweetness.
Don’t overcook spinach—just wilt it to preserve its vibrant color and nutrients.
Let chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
Use fresh garlic for the best flavor punch.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a bright finish.