Looking for an easy family dinner that won’t take long to prepare or cook? Then we have just the one for you!
Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) tinned tomatoes, crushed or diced [can use fresh tomatoes if you wish]
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil OR 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta of choice (penne, spaghetti, or fusilli work well)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserve some pasta water.
- Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Add Tinned Tomatoes: Pour the tinned tomatoes into the pan. Add the tomato paste, dried or fresh basil, and chicken broth or water. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, until it thickens slightly. If the sauce gets too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the tomato sauce. Stir in the cooked pasta, tossing well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
Optional Variations:
- Add a splash of cream or sprinkle of chili flakes for extra richness or heat. [Be aware of levels of spiciness for your family!]
- Incorporate vegetables like spinach, peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
This Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta is a versatile and comforting meal that comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for a family dinner on a busy weeknight. Easy Family Dinner .. Voilá! Enjoy!
*Image courtesy of Unsplash
