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Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta is a rich, comforting dish with tender chicken and vibrant flavors perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 oz pasta penne or fettuccine work beautifully for soaking up the sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for browning the chicken and building flavor
  • 1 pound chicken breast diced, choose fresh, boneless, skinless chicken for tenderness
  • 3 cloves garlic minced, adds aromatic depth to the sauce
  • 14 oz crushed tomatoes 1 can, the base of the sauce, bringing vibrant acidity
  • 1 cup heavy cream creates that luscious, creamy texture
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil infuses the sauce with classic herbaceous notes
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt to enhance all the flavors
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper for a subtle kick
  • fresh basil leaves for garnish, brightens and freshens the dish
  • Parmesan cheese for serving, adds a savory, nutty finish

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to deglaze the pan and pick up any browned bits. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes to deepen the flavor.
  • Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream and dried basil. Season with salt and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for another 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring it into the sauce. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water to loosen it to your preferred consistency.
  • Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Enjoy immediately with your favorite salad or garlic bread.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
  • Colander
  • Sharp Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Notes

  • Use penne or fettuccine pasta to help the sauce cling to every bite.
  • Reserve pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency perfectly.
  • Marinate chicken briefly with olive oil, garlic, and salt for extra flavor.
  • Simmer the sauce slowly to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of cream or water.