Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta
This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta is quick, comforting, and bursting with fresh basil flavor in a silky tomato sauce.
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Medium pot
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
- Colander
Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes canned
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- to taste salt and pepper
- as needed fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Begin by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic cloves. Rinse the chicken breasts and pat dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and slice into strips or bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Step 5: Build the Sauce
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and sprinkle in the dried basil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Add Cream and Combine
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to gently bubble and thicken for 3-4 minutes. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, then toss in the cooked pasta. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Finish with fresh basil leaves scattered on top for a bright, herbal note. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, comforting goodness.
Notes
- Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Reserve pasta water to help loosen the sauce without diluting flavor.
- Use fresh garlic for the best aroma and taste in the sauce.