The moment you take a whiff of the creamy chicken pasta with tomatoes and basil, your taste buds will be throwing a fiesta. Imagine tender chicken swimming in a rich, velvety sauce, mingling with plump, juicy tomatoes and the aromatic whispers of fresh basil. crispy pesto potatoes This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that will make you question why you ever settled for takeout.
As I stand in my kitchen channeling my inner chef, I can’t help but recall that one dinner party where I served this dish. My friends’ eyes lit up like Christmas lights, and I knew then that I had stumbled upon something truly special. perfect side dish for pasta Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests, this creamy chicken pasta recipe is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. creamy potato soup recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The creamy sauce envelops the chicken and pasta perfectly, creating a luscious dining experience
- It’s quick and simple, perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re feeling less than gourmet
- Vibrant colors of tomatoes and herbs make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home, making it incredibly versatile
My family couldn’t stop raving about this dish at our last gathering; they even asked for seconds! For more inspiration, check out this Honey Mustard Sausages recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: autumn-inspired pumpkin hummus.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work best; adjust based on your hungry crowd. For more inspiration, check out this Buffalo Chicken Wrap recipe.
- Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves to ensure maximum flavor.
- Pasta of Choice: Spaghetti or penne complements the creamy sauce nicely.
- Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes for chunky goodness in every bite.
- Heavy Cream: This is where the creaminess comes from—don’t skimp!
- Fresh Basil: Always go for fresh over dried; it makes all the difference here.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated cheese adds saltiness and depth—don’t forget to sprinkle generously!
- Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps sauté everything beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those lovely flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Sauté the Chicken: Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper and cook until golden brown on both sides.
Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Once the chicken is cooked through, toss in minced garlic until fragrant. Then add canned diced tomatoes with their juices, allowing them to bubble away while releasing their natural sweetness.
Create Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat and stir in heavy cream until fully combined. Watch as it transforms into a luscious sauce that hugs every ingredient tightly.
Toss in Fresh Basil and Cheese: Add chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese to enrich flavors further. Stir until well mixed while the aroma fills your kitchen like a warm hug.
Cook Pasta to Perfection: In a separate pot, boil water with salt and cook your pasta according to package instructions. Aim for al dente; no one likes mushy pasta!
Combine Everything Together: Drain the pasta and add it directly into the skillet with your creamy sauce. Toss carefully until every strand is coated evenly in that dreamy concoction.
And voila! Your creamy chicken pasta with tomatoes and basil is ready to be devoured! Serve hot, garnished with extra basil or cheese if you’re feeling fancy (who wouldn’t?). Enjoy each bite as they melt in your mouth—this dish is pure comfort food at its finest!
You Must Know
- This creamy chicken pasta recipe with tomatoes and basil brings together rich flavors and textures that will impress anyone
- The combination of fresh ingredients creates a vibrant dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for any occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve optimal results, start by searing the chicken first. While that’s cooking, prepare the pasta and sauce simultaneously to save time and ensure everything is hot and ready to serve.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding seasonal vegetables like spinach or zucchini. You can also swap out basil for parsley or use different types of cheese to enhance the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to keep it creamy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To truly elevate your creamy chicken pasta, remember that using fresh herbs makes a big difference in flavor
- Always taste as you go, adjusting seasoning as needed
- Don’t forget to let your pasta finish cooking in the sauce for a few minutes for maximum flavor absorption
Sharing this dish at a family gathering led to rave reviews, especially from my cousin who now insists on “borrowing” my recipe for her dinner parties.
FAQ
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Fettuccine or penne work great due to their ability to hold onto the sauce.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta for a delicious alternative that still tastes amazing.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking for an extra kick!
Creamy Chicken Pasta with Tomatoes and Basil
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Chicken Pasta with Tomatoes and Basil is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil all enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting meal that everyone will love. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy choice for busy cooks who crave homemade goodness without the hassle.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 8 oz pasta of choice (spaghetti or penne recommended)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown on both sides (about 6 minutes per side). Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in diced tomatoes with their juices and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat and mix in heavy cream until fully incorporated.
- Stir in chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese until combined.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions; drain when al dente.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce in the skillet, tossing to coat evenly.
- Serve hot with extra basil or cheese as garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
