Description
Enjoy a comforting bowl of creamy tomato chicken pasta, featuring tender chicken in a rich tomato and cream sauce, perfectly tossed with your favorite pasta. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz or 400 g) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Leave any drippings in the skillet for added flavor.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Pour the can of diced tomatoes (with juices) into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, mixing well until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Add the dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for another 3-4 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the creamy tomato sauce.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts into the sauce and adds a rich flavor.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a minute to cool slightly.
- Serve the creamy tomato chicken pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Enjoy your delicious creamy tomato chicken pasta dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Notes
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian seasoning or lemon juice for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the dish for extra nutrition and flavor.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes