Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta with Blistered Tomatoes and Kale is a well-balanced, flavorful pasta dish that brings together tender herb-seasoned chicken, garlicky sautéed kale, and sweet blistered cherry tomatoes. Tossed with spaghetti and olive oil, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe is light yet satisfying—perfect for a wholesome dinner or impressive weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta recipe combines protein, greens, and fresh flavor in one bowl. The herb-marinated chicken adds savory depth, while blistered tomatoes provide a natural sweetness that balances the bitterness of kale. It’s a healthier alternative to cream-heavy pasta dishes and can be prepared quickly with simple pantry staples. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner, this dish delivers both nourishment and taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 2 cups kale, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until blistered and softened, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add chopped kale along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Cook until kale is wilted and tender, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the kale. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Meanwhile, season the cubed chicken with oregano, basil, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
6. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
7. Plate the pasta with kale, top with the herb chicken and blistered tomatoes. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil if desired before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 3–4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian option: Omit the chicken and add roasted chickpeas or cannellini beans for plant-based protein.
• Add cheese: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or crumbled feta for extra richness.
• Use a different green: Substitute kale with spinach, arugula, or Swiss chard.
• Make it spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot chili oil before serving.
• Try another pasta: Use whole wheat pasta, linguine, or gluten-free varieties as needed.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to refresh the pasta and keep it from drying out. This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the delicate nature of the kale and tomatoes, but it can be frozen in a pinch for up to 1 month.

FAQs

Can I use frozen kale instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen kale can be used. Thaw and drain excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should be golden on the outside and have no pink in the center. An internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) ensures it’s cooked through.

Can I roast the tomatoes instead of blistering them?

Absolutely. Roast cherry tomatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes for a deeper caramelized flavor.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes. It keeps well in the fridge and reheats easily, making it great for packed lunches or dinner throughout the week.

Can I add a sauce to this recipe?

A light drizzle of lemon-garlic dressing or a touch of pesto would complement the flavors well without overpowering the dish.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless thighs are a great substitute and may offer a juicier texture.

What can I serve on the side?

A side salad, crusty bread, or grilled vegetables pair nicely with this pasta.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally dairy-free. Just avoid adding cheese if you’re keeping it that way.

Can I substitute the spaghetti with a low-carb alternative?

Zucchini noodles or chickpea-based pasta are good low-carb alternatives to traditional pasta.

Can I make this pasta without garlic?

Yes, although garlic is central to the flavor, it can be omitted or reduced for those sensitive to it.

Conclusion

Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta with Blistered Tomatoes and Kale is a fresh and wholesome dish that offers big flavor with minimal ingredients. It’s versatile, nutritious, and easy enough for a weeknight dinner while still being special enough for guests. Whether you’re aiming for a lighter pasta night or a Mediterranean-inspired meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

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