Save A luscious pasta dish featuring tender chicken, a rich creamy tomato sauce, and fresh basil for a comforting, flavorful meal.
The first time I made creamy tomato basil chicken pasta, my kitchen filled with incredible aromas that reminded me of family dinners growing up. Each bite has that comforting flavor that everyone loves.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: 2 large boneless skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 400 g)
- Pasta: 350 g penne or fettuccine
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Crushed tomatoes: 400 g canned
- Sun-dried tomatoes: 100 g packed in oil, drained and sliced
- Fresh basil leaves: 1 handful (about 20 g), torn or chopped
- Heavy cream: 200 ml
- Parmesan cheese: 50 g freshly grated
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp
- Chili flakes (optional): 1/2 tsp
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
- 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 and set aside.
- Sauté chicken:
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté onion for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make sauce:
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, and chili flakes if using. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add cream & cheese:
- Reduce heat to low. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until sauce is smooth and creamy. If sauce is too thick add reserved pasta water.
- Combine:
- Return cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat in sauce.
- Finish:
- Stir in fresh basil adjust seasoning and heat through for 1 to 2 minutes. Serve immediately garnished with extra basil and Parmesan if desired.
Pin it My family always asks for seconds whenever this creamy pasta is on the menu. It is now our go-to choice for sharing with friends on cozy evenings.
Required Tools
Large pot large skillet wooden spoon or spatula chefs knife cutting board colander
Nutritional Information
Calories 620 Total Fat 27 g Carbohydrates 58 g Protein 38 g per serving
Notes
For extra flavor add a splash of white wine after sautéing onions. Swap chicken for shrimp or omit for vegetarian version and add mushrooms or zucchini.
Pin it Enjoy this creamy tomato basil chicken pasta with extra Parmesan for a truly comforting dinner. Fresh basil brings brightness to every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I keep the chicken tender?
Cook the chicken over medium-high heat just until golden and no longer pink inside to retain juiciness.
- → Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, penne or fettuccine work best, but feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free varieties as preferred.
- → What if the sauce is too thick?
Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
- → How important is fresh basil in this dish?
Fresh basil provides a bright herbal note that balances the creamy tomato base; it's highly recommended.
- → Can this be made spicy?
Yes, including chili flakes during the sauce simmer adds a gentle heat to enhance the flavor.