Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken (Print Version)

Tender chicken and basil in a rich tomato-cream sauce, served over perfectly cooked pasta.

# Components:

→ Proteins

01 - 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

→ Pasta

02 - 12 ounces penne or fettuccine pasta

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

03 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 14 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
06 - 3.5 ounces sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and sliced
07 - 1 handful fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped

→ Dairy

08 - 3/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon heavy cream
09 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

→ Pantry & Seasoning

10 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
11 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
12 - 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
03 - Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to skillet. Sauté onion until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Stir in crushed tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and optional chili flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes to develop flavors.
05 - Lower heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until sauce is smooth and creamy. Thin sauce with reserved pasta water if needed.
06 - Return chicken and drained pasta to skillet and toss well to coat evenly in sauce.
07 - Stir in fresh basil, adjust seasoning as needed, and warm through for 1 to 2 minutes.
08 - Plate immediately, garnish with extra basil and Parmesan if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Rich creamy sauce delivers classic comfort
  • Quick and easy for weeknight dinners
02 -
  • Contains wheat and dairy so check labels for hidden allergens
  • Sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan may have nut or soy traces
03 -
  • Add reserved pasta water gradually for silky sauce texture
  • Garnish with freshly torn basil for best flavor right before serving
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