Tomato Chicken with Spinach

This Tomato Chicken with Spinach is a straightforward skillet meal that combines tender diced chicken with a vibrant tomato sauce, fresh spinach, and colorful bell peppers. It brings together Mediterranean flavors in a dish that is both satisfying and wholesome. Ready in about 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, healthy, and delicious without a lot of fuss.

I first whipped this up on a busy weekday and loved how quickly it came together without sacrificing any flavor. My family immediately noticed the bright colors and tender chicken, and now it’s a frequently requested dinner.

Ingredients

• Chicken or turkey breast: diced about 500 grams provides lean protein that stays tender when simmered
• Three bell peppers: of different colors sliced lengthwise bring sweetness and vibrant color, pick firm peppers without blemishes
• One can of blended tomatoes: forms the rich base of the sauce, choose a good quality brand for the best flavor depth
• Fresh or frozen spinach: about 80 grams adds nutrition and a mellow, earthy taste, fresh is ideal but frozen works once thawed well
• Four garlic cloves: chopped infuse the dish with warmth and aromatic complexity
• Four tablespoons olive oil: enriched the sauce with healthy fats and smooth mouthfeel, extra virgin is best for flavor
• Salt and pepper: to taste are essential for balancing the flavors
• Paprika: adds mild smokiness and eye-catching color, Hungarian or Spanish varieties do well here

Instructions

Sear the Chicken:

Heat a large deep skillet over medium heat and add one tablespoon of olive oil. Season the diced chicken generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Place the chicken in the skillet and cover it with a lid. Let it cook for about ten minutes. This slow, covered cooking ensures the meat cooks evenly and remains juicy inside.

Cook the Peppers and Garlic:

Once the chicken is tender, add the chopped garlic and sliced bell peppers into the skillet. Stir well and cook uncovered for five minutes. This softens the peppers sufficiently while keeping their structure intact, melding their sweetness with the chicken flavor.

Add the Tomato Sauce:

Pour the blended canned tomatoes over the chicken and vegetables. Mix everything together and allow it to simmer gently for five minutes. This first simmer thickens the sauce and brings all the flavors into harmony.

Wilt the Spinach:

Add the fresh or fully thawed spinach to the skillet. Stir it into the sauce and cover again with the lid. Let it cook for about three minutes until the spinach wilts completely and integrates its earthy essence into the dish.

Paprika is a special touch for me in this recipe. It brings a subtle smoky note that lifts the tomato sauce from ordinary to comforting like a warm hug. One time I made this for a family gathering, and the vibrant colors just lit up the table. Everyone was eager for seconds right away.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge where it will stay good for three to four days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove over low heat to keep the chicken tender and the vegetables from turning mushy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use diced turkey breast instead of chicken with no change in cooking time or flavor. For a dairy-free creamy effect, add a splash of coconut milk while simmering. If you prefer different veggies, zucchini or eggplant can replace bell peppers for a different twist.

Serving Suggestions

This works beautifully served over pasta, cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A simple green salad on the side can round out the meal nicely without overpowering the flavors.

This recipe is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients and minimal effort can create a dinner that feels both nourishing and special. Give it a try when you want a meal that satisfies with plenty of flavor and vibrant color on the plate.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Diced turkey breast works well, cooking similarly and providing a lean protein alternative without changing the dish's texture.

→ What sides complement this dish?

It pairs nicely with pasta, rice, or crusty bread that soaks up the sauce beautifully, enhancing the meal experience.

→ How do I keep the chicken tender?

Cooking the chicken covered over medium heat allows it to remain juicy and fully cooked in about 10 minutes.

→ Can frozen spinach be used instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw the spinach well before adding it late in cooking to wilt gently without excess moisture.

→ Which seasonings enhance the flavors best?

Salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic bring out savory depth and vibrant notes throughout the sauce and vegetables.