Easy Chicken Pasta with Tomatoes
A delightful dish combining juicy chicken, cherry tomatoes, and aromatic garlic, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Tender and juicy, these chicken breasts form the heart of the dish.
- 8 ounces Pasta (spaghetti or penne) Choose your favorite pasta, cooked to perfection to soak up all the delicious sauce.
- 3 cloves Fresh garlic (finely chopped) Aromatically rich, garlic adds depth and a wonderful fragrance to the dish.
- 2 cups Cherry tomatoes (halved) These sweet, juicy gems burst with flavor, making every bite a mouthwatering experience.
- 2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil Rich and fruity, this oil enhances the dish while being an essential base for sautéing.
- 1 cup Fresh basil leaves Bright and fragrant, basil elevates the dish with its herbaceous notes.
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Nutty and creamy, Parmesan adds that delightful finishing touch on top.
Instructions
Cooking
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Be sure to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining and set the pasta aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the extra virgin olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Allow them to cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until they reach a golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for around 4-5 minutes. As they heat, they will release their sweet juices, creating a beautiful sauce.
- Slice the rested chicken and add it back into the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves. Serve warm, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Tips: Always season the chicken well with salt and pepper; don't overcrowd the skillet; reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency later on.