Save to Pinterest Savor the vibrant flavors of Italy with this Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta. A perfect weeknight solution, this dish combines tender, golden-brown chicken with al dente pasta, all tossed in a savory, chunky tomato sauce enriched with fresh basil and sharp Parmesan cheese.
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The aroma of sautéed garlic and fresh basil creates an inviting kitchen atmosphere as you prepare this meal. By using short pasta like penne or fusilli, the rich sauce and chicken pieces are captured in every single bite, ensuring a flavorful experience from start to finish.
Ingredients
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- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) short pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli), salt for pasta water.
- Chicken: 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (350 g / 12 oz), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Tomato Basil Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 cloves garlic, 800 g (28 oz) canned diced tomatoes with juice, 1/2 tsp sugar (optional), 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), 1 loosely packed cup (25 g) fresh basil leaves.
- Finishing: 40 g (1/3 cup) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves for garnish.
Instructions
- Step 1
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Step 2
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sauté until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Step 3
- In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 4
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), sugar, salt, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Step 5
- Stir in the chopped basil and cooked chicken. Simmer for 2–3 minutes more to meld flavors.
- Step 6
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Step 7
- Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best texture, always cook your pasta al dente as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot tomato sauce. Reserving pasta water is a professional secret—the starch in the water helps the sauce emulsify and cling beautifully to the pasta.
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Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly adaptable. For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. If you have dietary preferences, feel free to substitute standard pasta with whole-wheat or gluten-free varieties.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this warm pasta in deep bowls, topped with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a crisp Pinot Grigio or a refreshing glass of sparkling water with lemon.
Save to Pinterest With its combination of fresh herbs, savory protein, and hearty pasta, this Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta is a nutritious and satisfying meal that brings the warmth of Italian cooking right to your table.
FAQs About This Recipe
- → Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes work beautifully in season. Use about 900g of ripe tomatoes, blanched and diced. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on tomato moisture content.
- → What pasta shapes work best?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are ideal as they catch and hold the sauce. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti, which doesn't coat as evenly.
- → How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces and avoid overcooking. Cook until just golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. The sauce will keep it moist when combined.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for substance and flavor. The cooking time remains the same.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Pinot Grigio complements the fresh basil and tomato flavors beautifully. Alternatively, serve with sparkling water and fresh lemon.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to restore sauce consistency.
