This easy chicken pasta dish comes together with juicy cherry tomatoes and fresh basil, making it a bright and tasty meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Don’t be surprised if your family comes back for seconds! I love how quickly it cooks up. Just toss everything in a pot, and you have a yummy dinner in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using penne or fusilli because they hold onto the sauce nicely. If you want a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great here, but you could also use thighs for more flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking to save time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut!
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes make this dish vibrant and tasty. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can be a good substitute. Just drain them slightly before adding them to the pan.
Basil: Fresh basil offers a bright flavor, but if you don’t have any, dried basil can work in a pinch. Use about a teaspoon of dried basil, but add it earlier in the cooking process since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is the way to go for the best taste! If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy and Flavorsome?
Keeping your chicken juicy is key in this dish! Start by cutting the chicken into even bite-sized pieces so they cook uniformly. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the olive oil in your skillet before adding the chicken; this helps to sear it and lock in moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this ensures the chicken gets that beautiful golden color.
- Cook the chicken until it’s just done—overcooked chicken can become dry. Aim for about 5-7 minutes.
By following these tips, your chicken will be tasty and juicy, making your pasta dish even better!
Easy Chicken Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Dish:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth (optional, for deglazing)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved from boiling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Chicken Pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep work and around 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Before you drain it, be sure to reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water. This water will help create a nice sauce later!
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them) and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Next, add in the halved cherry tomatoes and let them cook for approximately 5 minutes. You want them to soften and release their juicy goodness!
4. Deglaze the Pan (Optional):
If you want to add a little extra flavor, pour in the white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Use a spatula to scrape up any tasty brown bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet and let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it with the tomatoes. Then, add the drained pasta and the reserved pasta cooking water to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and saucy.
6. Finish with Fresh Ingredients:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese for that extra touch of flavor. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious chicken pasta immediately while it’s hot. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and tender chicken!
This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also bursts with freshness and is sure to become a favorite!
FAQs for Easy Chicken Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and fusilli are great choices, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for your chosen pasta.
Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?
Yes! You can use turkey, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially for shrimp, which cooks quickly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or a little reserved pasta water to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just omit the chicken and use more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to add substance. You could also incorporate beans for protein. Don’t forget to increase the amount of cherry tomatoes for extra flavor!
