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Cooking a comforting and hearty dish doesn’t have to be complicated. This Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta recipe combines a flavorful blend of ingredients that bring together a satisfying, easy-to-make meal. The combination of juicy chicken thighs, spinach, tangy tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta will not only please your taste buds but also fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly made, delicious food. Whether it’s a family dinner or a meal prep for the week, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your culinary rotation.

The dish brings the rich flavors of smoked paprika, garlic, and mixed herbs, complemented by the freshness of green onions and a touch of butter for added richness. The warm, satisfying blend of ingredients makes this meal perfect for any time of the year. So, if you are looking for a meal that combines comfort, simplicity, and taste, this Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta is your answer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Packed with Flavor

The combination of smoked paprika, mixed herbs, and garlic powder creates an aromatic base that elevates the dish to a whole new level.

2. Perfect for Meal Prep

With simple ingredients that store well, you can prepare this dish ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

3. One-Pot Wonder

This recipe is made in one pot, making the cleanup easy and leaving you with more time to enjoy the meal.

4. Nutritious and Hearty

With the added spinach and chicken thighs, this dish is both filling and nutritious, providing you with a good balance of protein and vegetables.

5. Customizable

You can easily switch out ingredients, like using different herbs or garnishing with various fresh herbs such as parsley or coriander, to make it your own.

Ingredients

Uncooked basmati rice
Chicken thighs
Mixed herbs
Smoked paprika
Onion powder
Garlic powder
Olive oil
Chopped onion (any type of onion works)
Butter
Low sodium chicken stock
Salt and pepper
Green onions for garnish (can be substituted with chives, parsley, or coriander)

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken thighs with plant-based protein, like tofu or chickpeas, for a vegetarian option.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or chili powder if you prefer a spicier kick to your pasta.
Pasta Alternatives: Switch out regular pasta for whole wheat, gluten-free pasta, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a healthier alternative.
Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or basil instead of mixed herbs to tailor the flavor to your liking.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Thighs

Season the chicken thighs with mixed herbs, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion

In the same skillet, add butter and sauté the chopped onions until they soften and become translucent.

Step 4: Add the Chicken Stock

Pour in the chicken stock and bring it to a simmer. Scrape any flavorful bits from the bottom of the skillet to incorporate into the sauce.

Step 5: Add Spinach

Stir in the spinach and cook until it wilts down and blends with the stock.

Step 6: Cook the Rice

Add the uncooked basmati rice to the skillet, making sure it is evenly distributed. Cover and let it cook until the rice absorbs the liquid and becomes tender.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Once the rice is cooked, slice the chicken thighs and mix them into the dish. Garnish with green onions (or herbs of choice) and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Searing Chicken: To get crispy, golden chicken, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken thighs.
Use Fresh Spinach: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh spinach. Frozen spinach may make the dish watery.
Flavor Depth: Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. If you like it richer, add more smoked paprika or garlic powder.

How to Serve

This dish is perfect on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken stock if necessary to restore moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but chicken thighs provide a juicier and more flavorful result.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or your choice of plant-based protein.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or chili powder to taste while cooking.

4. Can I use another type of rice?

Basmati rice is recommended for its fluffy texture, but you can substitute with other long-grain rice varieties like jasmine.

5. Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, but fresh spinach yields better texture and flavor.

6. Can I use low-sodium stock?

Yes, low-sodium chicken stock is a great choice to keep the dish healthier and control the salt content.

7. Can I add cheese?

Adding parmesan or mozzarella on top can enhance the dish’s flavor. Just sprinkle it before serving.

8. How do I prevent the rice from being too sticky?

Use a fork to fluff the rice after it’s cooked to separate the grains.

9. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your seasoning and stock are gluten-free.

10. How do I adjust the recipe for a smaller or larger batch?

Simply adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally based on the number of servings you need.

Conclusion

This Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta recipe is a versatile and comforting dish that combines rich flavors with nutritious ingredients. Easy to make, customizable, and perfect for meal prep, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty weekend meal, it promises to be both satisfying and delicious. Enjoy it with your favorite garnishes, and don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family!