Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that sings with vibrant flavors and fresh aromas. Imagine tender chicken simmered in a luscious tomato sauce, paired with perfectly al dente pasta, all topped with fragrant basil. creamy chicken pasta variations It’s a bowl of happiness that warms your heart and fills your stomach like a cozy hug. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta recipe.
This dish isn’t just delicious; it’s a memory maker. Picture this: a family gathering where everyone dives into heaping plates of Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta, laughter echoing as the sauce splatters onto shirts. delicious chicken-filled chimichangas It’s the perfect crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or special occasions, promising to elevate any meal into something extraordinary.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta is simple to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- The combination of fresh ingredients creates an irresistible flavor profile that delights your taste buds
- Its beautiful colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any table
- This dish is versatile enough for both casual dinners and elegant gatherings, sure to impress everyone
I remember the first time I made Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta for my friends; they practically licked their plates clean! comforting chicken casserole. For more inspiration, check out this Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Using about 3-4 breasts ensures there’s enough for everyone, but adjust based on your crowd size.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves with no blemishes to maximize flavor.
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Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality tomatoes; they form the base of your sauce and should be packed with flavor.
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Fresh Basil: Always go for fresh basil over dried; its aromatic qualities are unbeatable.
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Pasta of Your Choice: Whether you prefer spaghetti or penne, choose your favorite for this dish.
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it adds depth to the overall flavor.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds a rich, nutty finish to the dish.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skimp on these basics—they elevate every ingredient.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Chicken: Start by patting your chicken breasts dry; moisture can prevent browning. Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Reduce heat slightly and add minced garlic to the pan, cooking until fragrant—about 30 seconds will do—then pour in those diced tomatoes along with their juices.
Create the Sauce: Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Stir occasionally while imagining how good it’s going to taste.
Add Fresh Basil and Cook Pasta: Stir in chopped basil right before serving for that fresh burst of flavor. Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Toss it All Together!: Drain pasta and add it directly into the skillet with your chicken and sauce. Toss everything together gently until well combined, allowing each strand of pasta to soak up that delicious sauce.
Now you’ve created a bowl of pure comfort! Serve hot, garnished with extra basil leaves and freshly grated Parmesan cheese to wow your guests or family at dinner tonight.
You Must Know
- Cooking Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta is a delightful experience
- The fresh aroma of basil and simmering tomatoes fills the kitchen, making it feel like a cozy Italian trattoria
- Remember, the right pasta shape holds sauce better, enhancing each bite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken for rich flavor, then cook the pasta while preparing your aromatic sauce for the best results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or add spinach for extra nutrition and color. Your creativity can shine here!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta, ensure your ingredients are fresh and season well
- Cook pasta al dente for the best texture
- Don’t forget to let flavors meld; they’ll thank you later!
Sharing this recipe at a family gathering was unforgettable; everyone raved about it! Even my picky cousin went back for seconds.
FAQ
What type of pasta works best for Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta?
light and healthy chicken salad.
Use penne or rotini for optimal sauce adherence and flavor enhancement.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare everything in advance and reheat just before serving.
What can I substitute for fresh basil?
Dried basil works in a pinch, but fresh has unbeatable flavor!
Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta is a vibrant and comforting dish, perfect for any occasion. This delightful recipe features tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce, accompanied by al dente pasta and finished with fresh basil. It’s an easy-to-make meal that promises to bring loved ones together around the dinner table, creating lasting memories with every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 28 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 12 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti or penne)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
- Add minced garlic to the same skillet, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in diced tomatoes with juices and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain.
- Stir in chopped basil into the sauce before serving. Toss cooked pasta with the chicken and sauce in the skillet until well combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 358g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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