Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta

This flavorful tomato basil chicken pasta is simmered in a creamy burst cherry tomato sauce, creating a satisfying and comforting dish. With a perfect balance of spice, fresh basil, and tender chicken, this is a weeknight dinner your whole family will love. Customizable with extra veggies or different protein options, it’s easy to make and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The creamy and tangy burst cherry tomato sauce paired with perfectly seasoned chicken and rigatoni makes this dish irresistible. It’s a well-rounded meal with protein, carbs, and veggies, making it both delicious and filling. Plus, it can be customized to suit dietary preferences.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts (or thighs)

• Olive oil

• Rigatoni pasta

• Garlic powder

• Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper

• Red pepper flakes

• Fresh basil

• Yellow onion

• Cherry tomatoes

• Tomato paste

• Dry white wine (or chicken broth)

• Heavy cream

• Parmesan cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions.

2. Butterfly the chicken breasts, season them, and cook in olive oil until golden and fully cooked.

3. Sauté onions and garlic in the skillet, add cherry tomatoes, and cook until they burst.

4. Add tomato paste, wine, and cream, then stir in Parmesan.

5. Combine the pasta, chicken, and sauce, and top with fresh basil.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for chickpeas, beans, or extra veggies.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a completely gluten-free dish.

• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk and dairy-free Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe for a juicier result.

2. How do I make the pasta more flavorful?

Make sure to salt the water generously when cooking the pasta.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add extra red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the sauce and chicken in advance and assemble the dish later.

6. Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze the pasta without the chicken, but it’s best to freeze the sauce and pasta separately.

7. How can I add more vegetables?

Add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added color and nutrition.

8. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, fresh diced tomatoes will work in place of the cherry tomatoes.

9. Can I omit the wine in the sauce?

Yes, chicken broth or vegetable broth is a good substitute for wine.

10. Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s mild enough for kids but can be spiced up for adults.

Conclusion

This Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta is a rich, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and can be customized to fit your dietary needs. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or switch it up with your favorite proteins and veggies, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion!

Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta

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• Author: Paula
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta features tender chicken, creamy cherry tomato sauce, and fresh basil, all served over rigatoni pasta. The perfect combination of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors makes this an irresistible weeknight dinner. Customizable with extra veggies or different proteins, it’s a well-rounded, comforting meal your whole family will love.

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Ingredients

Chicken breasts (or thighs)

Olive oil

12 oz rigatoni pasta

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

1 yellow onion, diced

2 cups cherry tomatoes

2 tbsp tomato paste

½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth for non-alcoholic option)

¾ cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Cook rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken:
Butterfly the chicken breasts, season both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness). Remove from the skillet and slice.

Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to burst, about 5 minutes. Stir in tomato paste, wine, and cream, and simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the skillet, tossing everything together to coat in the creamy tomato sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

Serve:
Plate the pasta and garnish with additional fresh basil and Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas, beans, or extra vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free Parmesan for a dairy-free dish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Dish, Pasta
• Method: Stovetop, Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian-American