Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta (Printer View)

Tender chicken and fresh basil in a rich tomato cream sauce with pasta for a comforting dish.

# Components:

→ Proteins

01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

→ Pasta

02 - 12 ounces penne or fettuccine pasta

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

03 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 14 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
06 - 3.5 ounces sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and sliced
07 - 1 handful fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped

→ Dairy

08 - 3/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon heavy cream
09 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

→ Pantry & Seasoning

10 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
11 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
12 - 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Method:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
03 - Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to skillet. Sauté onion for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Stir in crushed tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, and chili flakes if using. Simmer for 5 minutes.
05 - Reduce heat to low. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until sauce is smooth and creamy. Add reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
06 - Return chicken to skillet with drained pasta. Toss to coat thoroughly in sauce.
07 - Stir in fresh basil. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Heat through for 1 to 2 minutes.
08 - Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Rich tomato-basil flavor with creamy sauce
  • Quick and easy one-pan meal for busy nights
02 -
  • This recipe contains milk and wheat products
  • Always check labels for potential allergens in sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan
03 -
  • Add a splash of white wine after sautéing onions for extra depth
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust your sauce consistency—creamy but never soupy
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