Description
A fast, flavorful, and family-friendly pasta dish, this creamy tomato basil chicken pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners or quick lunches. Made in just 20 minutes, it features juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a rich tomato-basil cream sauce that’s seasoned with Italian herbs and topped with fresh Parmesan. Ideal for busy cooks who want big flavor without the fuss.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or your choice)
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
- Add the cream and parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked chicken slices to the sauce and simmer for a few more minutes until heated through.
- Toss in the cooked pasta and stir until everything is well coated.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh basil just before serving.
Notes
-
To make the sauce smoother, always stir in the cream off heat
-
Fresh basil should be added last to preserve its flavor
-
Use leftover or rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal
-
For meal prep, store the sauce and pasta separately for better texture
-
Can be made vegetarian or dairy-free with easy swaps