Tomato Chicken with Spinach

This tomato chicken with spinach combines tender pieces of chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce with fresh spinach and colorful bell peppers. Garlic and paprika add warmth and depth while olive oil brings everything together with a smooth finish. Cooked all in one skillet in just 25 minutes, it’s a wholesome and vibrant meal that fits perfectly into busy weeknights. Whether paired with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, this Mediterraneaninspired dish is both simple and satisfying.

I first made this recipe on a hectic weekday and was amazed at how quickly it came together while still tasting special. My family loved the colorful peppers and tender chicken so much that they asked for leftovers the next day.

Ingredients

• Chicken or turkey breast: diced about 500 grams lean protein that stays tender in the sauce
• Three bell peppers: of different colors cut lengthwise bring natural sweetness and vibrant color choose firm peppers without wrinkles
• One can of blended tomatoes: forms the flavorful base of the sauce opt for good quality canned tomatoes for deeper flavor
• Fresh or frozen spinach: about 80 grams adds nutrition and a mellow earthy taste fresh spinach is preferable but frozen works well if thawed properly
• Four garlic cloves: chopped infuse the dish with aromatic warmth
• Four tablespoons olive oil: use extra virgin for richer flavor and healthy fats
• Salt and pepper: to taste essential for seasoning and balance
• Paprika: adds mild smokiness and vibrant color choose Hungarian or Spanish variety for the best results

Instructions

Sear the Chicken:

Heat a large deep skillet over medium heat and pour in one tablespoon of olive oil. Season the diced chicken generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add the chicken to the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for about ten minutes allowing the chicken to cook thoroughly while staying juicy. Cooking covered traps steam and keeps the meat tender.

Cook the Peppers and Garlic:

Once the chicken is tender, add the chopped garlic and the sliced bell peppers. Stir everything well and cook uncovered for five minutes. This softens the peppers just enough to blend their sweetness without losing too much crunch, while the garlic infuses warmth into the mixture.

Add the Tomato Sauce:

Pour in the blended canned tomatoes next. Stir to combine all the ingredients and let the mixture simmer gently for about five minutes. This step thickens the sauce slightly and allows the flavors of tomato, chicken, and peppers to meld together beautifully.

Wilt the Spinach:

Add the fresh or properly thawed spinach into the skillet. Stir it gently into the sauce then cover the skillet again. Let it cook for about three minutes until the spinach wilts completely and becomes part of the sauce, contributing its lovely earthy flavor.

Paprika is one of my favorite flavor enhancers in this dish. It brings a subtle smokiness that makes the tomato sauce uniquely comforting. I remember making this for a family gathering and the vibrant colors on the plate made everyone smile even before taking their first bite.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for three to four days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve the tender texture of both chicken and vegetables without drying them out.

Ingredient Substitutions

Turkey breast works beautifully as a substitute for chicken without sacrificing flavor or texture. To keep it dairy free but creamy, try adding a splash of coconut milk while simmering the sauce. If you want to switch up the veggies, zucchini or eggplant make good alternatives for bell peppers, offering a different but delicious twist.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is fantastic served alongside pasta to soak up the sauce, cauliflower rice if you want to keep it low carb, or crusty bread that helps scoop up every bit of that flavorful sauce. A fresh green salad on the side pairs wonderfully for a complete meal.

This quick Mediterraneaninspired skillet makes a vibrant weeknight dinner the whole family will enjoy. Leftovers reheat well making it a perfect make ahead meal.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Diced turkey breast works well and cooks in similar time, providing a lean protein alternative without sacrificing flavor.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Enjoy it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread which soaks up the sauce beautifully, adding a comforting touch.

→ How do I keep the chicken tender?

Cooking chicken covered over medium heat for about 10 minutes helps retain moisture and ensures tenderness.

→ Is frozen spinach a good substitute for fresh?

Yes, thaw frozen spinach well before adding it during the final cooking stage to wilt gently without extra water.

→ Which seasonings enhance the flavors best?

Salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic create a balanced savory profile that complements the tomato and spinach beautifully.