Devour Amazing Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta in 35 Minutes

Guys, let’s talk about Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta. Okay, but *this* Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta. Seriously, I’ve been making this dish for years, tweaking it here and there until it’s become my absolute go-to for a quick, flavorful weeknight meal. It’s fresh, it’s easy, and honestly, it’s the kind of meal that just makes you feel good, ya know? I think what really makes this recipe special is the simplicity. As someone who’s spent countless hours experimenting in the kitchen in Seattle, finding those unfussy recipes that deliver big flavor are a win. Cooking should be joyful, not stressful! So, if you’re looking for a surefire way to get dinner on the table that everyone will love, trust me, this is it.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe

Okay, so why is this Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta about to become your new favorite? Let me tell ya:

• It’s bursting with fresh, summery flavors. The basil and ripe tomatoes? *Chef’s kiss*
• It’s unbelievably easy to make! Seriously, even on the busiest weeknights, you can whip this up.
• It’s quick! From start to finish, you’re looking at around 35 minutes. Hello, easy weeknight dinners!
• It’s actually pretty darn healthy. Packed with protein and veggies, so you can feel good about what you’re eating.

Ingredients for Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta

Alright, let’s gather our goodies! Here’s what you’ll need to make this amazing Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta. Don’t skimp on the fresh stuff – it really makes a difference!

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. I like to cut them about 1-inch, but you do you!
• 1 lb pasta (penne, farfalle, or spaghetti work well). Honestly, use whatever you have in your pantry!
• 2 tbsp olive oil. Extra virgin, of course! That’s what Grandma always used.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped. About a cup, give or take.
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced. Or more! I’m a garlic girl, so I usually go for three.
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes. San Marzano are my fave, if you wanna get fancy.
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved. The sweeter the better!
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped. Don’t even THINK about dried basil here!
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving. Freshly grated is always best!
• Salt and black pepper to taste.
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or pasta water for consistency (optional). You might not need it, but it’s good to have on hand.

How to Make Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta

Okay, friend, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to bring this Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta to life. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!

1. First things first, get that pasta going! Cook it according to the package directions. I usually set a timer so I don’t forget. And VERY important: before you drain the pasta, scoop out about 1/2 cup of that pasta water. Set it aside – you might need it later to make your sauce extra luscious.
2. While the pasta’s doing its thing, let’s tackle the chicken. Heat up that olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in your chicken pieces. Cook ’em until they’re browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Just make sure there’s no pink inside, okay? Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Now, into that same skillet, add your chopped onion. Cook it until it’s softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, toss in your minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can really smell it – that’s when you *know* it’s ready. (Careful not to burn the garlic, it gets bitter!)
4. Alright, time for the tomatoes! Stir in that can of crushed tomatoes and the halved cherry tomatoes. Bring it all to a simmer – that’s just a gentle bubble – and cook for 5-7 minutes. This lets the flavors meld together and those cherry tomatoes soften up a bit. Mmm!
5. Now, bring the chicken back to the party! Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Then, add your cooked and drained pasta. Give everything a good stir to make sure the pasta is coated in that gorgeous tomato sauce.
6. Here comes the good stuff! Stir in that fresh basil (smells amazing, right?) and Parmesan cheese. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water or chicken broth until it reaches the consistency you like.
7. Last but not least, season with salt and black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy!
8. Serve it up hot, garnished with extra fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy every single bite!

Tips for the Best Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta

Want to take your Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta to the next level? Of course you do! Here are a few of my tried-and-true tips:

• Don’t overcook the chicken! Nobody likes dry chicken. Cook it until it’s *just* cooked through, and it’ll be so much more tender.
• Taste and adjust! Seriously, taste your sauce as it simmers and add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re feeling sassy.
• Fresh basil is a MUST. Dried basil just doesn’t have the same oomph.
• Don’t be afraid of the pasta water! That starchy water is liquid gold for creating a creamy, dreamy sauce. Use it!

Variations on This Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe

Okay, so you’ve made the original, and you’re loving it, but you wanna mix things up a bit? I get it! Here are a few fun twists on this Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta:

• **Spice it up!** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick.
• **Go vegetarian:** Skip the chicken and add some roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant.
• **Make it gluten-free:** Use your favorite gluten-free pasta. There are so many good ones out there now!
• **Add some cream:** Stir in a dollop of mascarpone or cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier sauce. So good, right?

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta

This Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta is pretty amazing on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, I’ve got some ideas! A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is always a winner. Some crusty bread for soaking up that delicious sauce? Yes, please! Or, if you’re trying to sneak in more veggies (aren’t we all?), some steamed or roasted broccoli would be fab.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Storing this Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta is super easy. Just pop it in an airtight container and stick it in the fridge. It’ll keep for about 3-4 days. Reheating? Just microwave it until it’s heated through. If you’re fancy, you can reheat it in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Freezing? I don’t usually recommend it, as the pasta can get a little mushy! But in a pinch, it’ll do the job if properly sealed!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta

Got questions about making the best Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta ever? I’ve got answers! Here are a few of the most common questions I get asked:

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?

Okay, I’m gonna be real with you: fresh basil is *always* better. But, if you’re in a pinch, you *can* use dried basil. Just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so you’ll only need about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil. But seriously, try to use fresh; it makes all the difference!

What’s the best kind of pasta to use for this recipe?

Honestly, you can use pretty much any kind of pasta you like! I usually go for penne or farfalle because they hold the sauce really well. But spaghetti, rotini, even rigatoni would work great. Use your fave!

Can I make this Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta ahead of time?

Yep, you sure can! This dish is actually great for meal prepping. Just cook the pasta al dente (a little firm), so it doesn’t get mushy when you reheat it. Store the pasta and sauce separately, then combine them when you’re ready to eat. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Is this Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta recipe healthy?

I think so! It’s packed with protein from the chicken, plus lots of vitamins and antioxidants from the tomatoes and basil. And you can always lighten it up by using whole-wheat pasta or adding extra veggies. I always feel good after eating it!

Nutritional Information for Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta

Okay, quick disclaimer: the nutritional information below is an estimate. It’s gonna vary depending on the exact ingredients and brands you use. So, please don’t take it as gospel, okay?

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