Craving a comforting meal that brings everyone together? This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta is a perfect family dinner recipe, offering a delicious and easy weeknight solution. You’ll love how quickly this flavorful dish comes together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. You can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Pasta: Any short pasta works well. Try penne, rotini, or farfalle.
- Canned Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes are best. Diced tomatoes work too, but you might want to blend them slightly for a smoother sauce.
- Heavy Cream: For richness. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Fresh Basil: Don’t skip this for the best flavor. Dried basil can be used in a pinch, but use less.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers the best aroma and taste. Garlic powder can be used as a substitute, but adjust the amount.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is always superior. Pre-shredded will work.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 8 ounces short pasta (penne, rotini)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Large skillet or Dutch oven, large pot for pasta.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Build the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Finish the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream and half of the fresh basil. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Serve and Garnish
Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining fresh basil and extra grated Parmesan cheese. This comforting family dinner recipe is now ready to enjoy.
Variation Ideas:
- Add Veggies: Stir in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms with the onion for extra nutrition.
- Make it Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Different Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like fresh parsley or a touch of dried thyme.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of chicken broth or a little water to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use jarred pasta sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?
Yes, you can use your favorite jarred marinara sauce for convenience. Adjust the seasonings as needed.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
You can use about 1-2 teaspoons of dried basil, but the fresh herb provides a much brighter flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Cook the pasta just before serving and combine everything to maintain the best texture.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
While you can freeze it, creamy sauces can sometimes separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
How can I make this dish lighter?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and consider whole wheat pasta.
What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cut and cook quickly, making them ideal for this family dinner recipe.