Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the richness of creamy sauce with the fresh, tangy flavors of tomatoes and the aromatic essence of basil. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to impress at dinner or simply enjoy a delicious meal at home. Its standout feature is the harmonious blend of flavors that come together effortlessly, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.
The dish is easy to prepare, requiring minimal time in the kitchen while delivering maximum flavor. With the comforting texture of pasta paired with tender chicken and a luscious sauce, it’s no wonder this recipe is a go-to for many households.
Ingredients
– 8 ounces penne pasta
– 1 pound chicken breasts, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Red pepper flakes for added spice
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until well combined and creamy.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the cooked penne pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. Stir in the fresh basil and Italian seasoning. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
Understanding the Ingredients
Penne Pasta
Penne pasta is a fantastic choice for this dish as its tubular shape allows it to hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
Chicken Breasts
Using lean chicken breasts adds protein to the meal while absorbing the rich flavors of the sauce, making each bite satisfying.
Olive Oil
Olive oil serves as the base for sautéing and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Garlic
Garlic provides depth and aroma, elevating the dish from simple to scrumptious.
Diced Tomatoes
These offer a fresh and tangy base for the sauce, balancing the creaminess with acidity.
Heavy Cream and Parmesan Cheese
These ingredients are essential for creating the rich, creamy texture that defines this pasta dish.
Fresh Basil
Fresh basil introduces a bright, herbal note that complements the creamy tomato sauce perfectly.
Italian Seasoning
This blend of herbs enhances the overall flavor, bringing an authentic Italian taste to your meal.
Optional Ingredients
For those who enjoy a spicy kick, red pepper flakes can be added to give the dish an extra layer of flavor.
Stay tuned for the next part of this recipe, where we will dive into additional cooking tips and variations to customize your Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta.
Techniques for Sautéing Garlic Without Burning
Sautéing garlic is a crucial step in this recipe, but it’s important to do it correctly to avoid a bitter flavor. To sauté garlic without burning, start by using a medium-low heat. This ensures that the garlic releases its aroma without turning brown too quickly. Additionally, consider adding garlic to the pan after the onions have started to soften; this gives you a little more time to monitor its cooking. Stir frequently and keep a close eye on the color. If you notice the garlic starting to brown, immediately remove it from the heat.
Importance of Using Drained Diced Tomatoes for Sauce Consistency
Using drained diced tomatoes is essential for achieving the right consistency in your sauce. Excess liquid from undrained tomatoes can make the sauce too watery, preventing it from adhering well to the pasta. By draining the tomatoes, you concentrate the flavors and ensure a thicker, creamier sauce that clings beautifully to each strand of pasta.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
To create a rich and creamy sauce, heavy cream is your best friend. Start by adding the cream to the sautéed garlic and diced tomatoes, allowing it to simmer gently. The key to achieving the perfect creaminess is to whisk the cream in gradually while stirring. This helps to prevent curdling and ensures a smooth texture. Incorporating grated Parmesan cheese not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the creaminess. Stir the cheese in until it melts completely, creating a luscious sauce.
Combining Ingredients
When integrating the cooked chicken and fresh basil into the sauce, it’s important to do so gently. Add the chicken after the sauce has thickened slightly, allowing it to absorb the flavors without breaking apart. Fresh basil should be added towards the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant color and flavor. Stir the basil in just before serving for the best results.
Mixing in the Pasta
To ensure that the pasta is well-coated with the sauce, consider adding the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce. Tossing the pasta in the sauce over low heat allows it to absorb some of the sauce while also ensuring every bite is flavorful. If the sauce appears too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to help loosen it up and create a silky finish.
Final Adjustments
Before serving, it’s crucial to taste the dish and make any necessary adjustments to the seasoning. A dash of salt, a sprinkle of black pepper, or an extra pinch of Italian herbs can elevate the flavors significantly. Remember that the cheese adds saltiness, so adjust accordingly based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
For a beautiful presentation, garnish your creamy tomato basil chicken pasta with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. This not only enhances the dish aesthetically but also adds extra flavor.
Pair your pasta with garlic bread for a comforting and hearty meal, or serve it alongside a fresh garden salad to add a refreshing crunch. If you have leftovers, this dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce’s consistency.
Nutritional Information
This creamy tomato basil chicken pasta offers a balanced meal, providing a solid source of protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the pasta, and healthy fats from the heavy cream. The tomatoes contribute vitamins C and K, while basil adds antioxidants. For a lighter alternative, consider substituting the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream, and use whole grain pasta for added fiber.
Conclusion
This creamy tomato basil chicken pasta is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for family meals or dinner parties. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. We encourage you to try this recipe and savor the delightful combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh basil. Feel free to explore variations or add your personal twist to the recipe, making it uniquely yours!
