Easy Tomato Basil Pasta with Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that’s both comforting and bursting with fresh flavors, this Tomato Basil Pasta with Chicken recipe is your new best friend. Combining tender chicken, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, it’s an easy recipe to whip up any night of the week. The perfect balance of juicy protein and vibrant veggies tossed with pasta will leave you feeling satisfied and excited for every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity at its best: With just a handful of fresh ingredients, this pasta is quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
• Fresh and wholesome: Ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil deliver bright, garden-fresh flavors that make every mouthful delightful.
• Weeknight winner: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy evenings without sacrificing taste.
• Protein-packed: Tender chicken adds a satisfying element that fuels your body and keeps you full longer.
• Versatile and adaptable: Easy to customize to suit your taste or pantry with simple variations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Tomato Basil Pasta with Chicken recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that work beautifully together. Each adds a unique note—whether it’s the sweet acidity of tomatoes, the aromatic brightness of basil, or the tender chew of pasta.

• Chicken breasts: Skinless and boneless for quick cooking and lean protein.
• Cherry tomatoes: Bursting with sweetness and perfect for a juicy sauce base.
• Fresh basil leaves: The star herb, adding herbal freshness and a peppery punch.
• Garlic cloves: Mincing fresh garlic enhances the overall depth of flavor.
• Olive oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil enriches the sauce and helps sauté the ingredients perfectly.
• Pasta of choice: Spaghetti, linguine, or penne all work well and soak up the sauce beautifully.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for topping and adding a salty, creamy finish.
• Salt and pepper: To season each component and highlight the natural flavors.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick if you like a bit of heat.

Variations for Tomato Basil Pasta with Chicken

Feel free to make this Tomato Basil Pasta with Chicken your own! This recipe is wonderfully flexible and can be customized easily depending on your pantry, dietary preferences, or flavor desires.

• Vegetarian twist: Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies for a plant-forward meal.
• Creamy version: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of mascarpone to make a luscious sauce.
• Spicy upgrade: Add extra chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who love warmth.
• Gluten-free option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to keep things allergy-friendly.
• Herb swap: Try fresh oregano or thyme if basil isn’t on hand, keeping the herbaceous vibe fresh.

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How to Make Tomato Basil Pasta with Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Begin by slicing the chicken breasts into bite-sized strips and seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat, then cook the chicken pieces until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then toss in minced garlic. Sauté gently until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it. Next, add the cherry tomatoes, cooking until they soften and start to break down, around 5 minutes. This creates a fresh, light tomato sauce base.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the tomato sauce. Add the drained pasta and fresh basil leaves, stirring everything together. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up, coating every strand beautifully.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Give it a final toss and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips for Making Tomato Basil Pasta with Chicken

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil and ripe tomatoes make a huge difference in flavor brightness.
• Don’t overcook chicken: Keep it juicy by cooking just until no longer pink inside and resting briefly.
• Save pasta water: The salted, starchy water is perfect to adjust sauce texture and helps it cling better.
• Slice tomatoes evenly: So they cook uniformly and break down smoothly into sauce.
• Serve promptly: Pasta tastes best fresh; leftovers can dry out if not stored properly.

How to Serve Tomato Basil Pasta with Chicken

Garnishes

Top your pasta with fresh basil leaves, a generous sprinkle of Parmesan, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to amplify freshness and richness.

Side Dishes

Pair with a simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or crusty garlic bread to soak up every juicy bite of the sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this pasta in individual bowls layered with colorful heirloom tomatoes and microgreens, or sprinkle toasted pine nuts for extra crunch and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce slightly separate if possible to prevent pasta from becoming mushy.

Freezing

This dish freezes well — transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce and keep the chicken tender. Avoid microwaving directly to preserve texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, farfalle, or even whole wheat pasta all work wonderfully and absorb the sauce well.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast without sacrificing flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and it’s no longer pink inside; it should feel firm but still juicy.

Can I prepare this dish without fresh basil?

While fresh basil is ideal, dried basil can be used in a pinch but add it earlier during cooking to release its flavor.

What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from sticking?

Use plenty of salted boiling water, stir occasionally while cooking, and rinse only if you plan to use the pasta cold in salads.

Final Thoughts

This Tomato Basil Pasta with Chicken recipe is a go-to for busy nights when you still want something fresh, tasty, and satisfying. The bright flavors, simple ingredients, and speedy cooking process come together to create a dish that’s truly a joy to make and eat. Give this recipe a try, and it might just become your favorite weeknight comfort food too!

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