Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken (Printable Version)

Tender chicken and pasta coated in a creamy tomato sauce with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.

# Ingredient List:

→ Proteins

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

→ Pasta

02 - 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

03 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 14 oz canned crushed tomatoes
06 - 3.5 oz 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 tbsp heavy cream
09 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

→ Pantry & Seasoning

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

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining and setting pasta aside.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
03 - Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Sauté chopped onion for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Stir in crushed tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, and chili flakes if using. Let simmer gently for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
05 - Reduce heat to low. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy. Adjust sauce thickness by adding reserved pasta water as needed.
06 - Return cooked chicken to the skillet along with drained pasta. Toss thoroughly to coat in the sauce.
07 - Stir in fresh basil. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Heat through for 1 to 2 minutes. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Tender chicken and pasta in a creamy, tangy tomato sauce
  • Easy weeknight meal ready in under an hour
02 -
  • Contains milk and wheat
  • Always check ingredient labels for allergens or dietary restrictions
03 -
  • Add a splash of white wine after sautéing onions for extra flavor
  • Swap chicken for shrimp, or use mushrooms or zucchini for a vegetarian version
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