This easy chicken pasta dish brings together juicy chicken, fresh cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil. It’s colorful, tasty, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
I love how the tomatoes burst with flavor, adding a yummy twist. And guess what? It takes just one pan to make, so cleanup is a breeze! Who doesn’t appreciate that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Any pasta works well here! I love using penne for its ridges that hold sauce nicely. If you’re gluten-free, try chickpea or quinoa pasta for a great texture. Whole wheat pasta is another nutritious option.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a wonderful flavor to the dish. If you run out, you can use vegetable oil or avocado oil, but the taste won’t be the same. A bit of butter with the oil can also deepen the flavor!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and cook fast. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier result. Tofu or chickpeas work well as vegetarian alternatives.
Cherry Tomatoes: The sweet burst of cherry tomatoes is key. If they aren’t in season, go for canned diced tomatoes instead. They’ll lend moisture and flavor in the sauce.
Basil: Fresh basil is essential for that aromatic touch! If you don’t have it, try using dried basil (about 1 tsp), but add it earlier in the cooking to draw out its flavor.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but don’t worry! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure the chicken pieces are evenly cut to promote even cooking.
- Heat the skillet well before adding the chicken; this helps achieve a golden brown crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary so the chicken fries rather than steams.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before mixing it back in with the sauce – this keeps it juicy!
Easy Chicken Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- Salt, for boiling water
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or pasta cooking water
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for added depth)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful chicken pasta dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. In just 30 minutes from start to end, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining it and setting the pasta aside.
2. Sear the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to burn it! Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook these, stirring occasionally, for around 5 minutes until they soften and start releasing their juices.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour in the chicken broth or the reserved pasta water, and add the balsamic vinegar if you’re using it. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to create a light sauce. Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat with the sauce.
5. Finish It Off:
Next, add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined and heated through. If the sauce seems thick, don’t hesitate to add a bit more of the reserved pasta water. Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh basil and red pepper flakes, if you’d like a little kick.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your tasty chicken pasta is ready to serve! Dish it up and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top if you desire. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Any Type of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne, fusilli, and spaghetti are great choices, you can use any pasta you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?
Yes! You can easily swap the chicken for other proteins like shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm them gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, you can use dried basil instead. About 1 teaspoon of dried basil will work, but add it earlier in the cooking process to allow the flavors to develop. You can also try using other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano to enhance the dish!
