This Tomato Chicken Pasta is a scrumptious, hearty dish that combines the richness of tender chicken pieces with the tangy burst of fresh tomatoes. The pasta offers a delightful texture, while a sprinkle of aromatic herbs brings a whiff of the Italian countryside to your plate. It's an easy-to-make meal, perfect for a mid-week dinner or a family gathering on the weekend.
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, allowing you to adjust ingredients to your personal preference, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is all about balancing textures and flavors. The chicken adds protein and a succulent taste, while tomatoes provide a delightful tangy sweetness. The harmony between these ingredients forms a mouthwatering sauce that coats each strand of pasta, creating a perfect blend of tastes in every bite. Not to mention, the combination of garlic, basil, and oregano infuses the dish with a mesmerizing aroma, taking you on a gustatory journey to Italy right from your kitchen.
Moreover, what makes this Tomato Chicken Pasta truly exceptional is its simplicity and convenience. The ingredients are common staples in most kitchens, saving you a trip to the grocery store. It's also time-efficient - in just about 30 minutes, you'll have a restaurant-quality pasta dish on your table. Plus, it's an incredibly versatile recipe. Want to add some veggies? Go for it. Looking for a creamy version? Just stir in some cream or cheese. This adaptability allows you to experiment and cater to different dietary preferences without sacrificing the essential soul of the dish. Give this recipe a try, and you'll see why it's a fantastic choice for a quick, tasty, and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Cherry Tomatoes- These small, sweet tomatoes add a burst of tangy flavor and vibrant color to the pasta. If you can't find cherry tomatoes, you can use diced regular tomatoes instead.
Boneless Chicken Breasts- They are lean, protein-rich, and quick to cook. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor.
Pasta- You can use any kind of pasta you like; spaghetti, penne, or fusilli are all good choices. For a healthier option, consider whole grain pasta or gluten-free pasta.
Garlic- Fresh garlic gives the pasta a rich, robust flavor. If you don't have fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used as a substitute.
Olive Oil- This is used for sautéing the chicken and vegetables, and adds a wonderful richness to the dish. If you don't have olive oil, you can use any other neutral-tasting oil such as canola or vegetable oil.
Tips
- Cook the pasta just until it's al dente, or firm to the bite, to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- To make the chicken juicy and tender, don't overcook it. It's fully cooked when it's no longer pink inside, or when a thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F.
- If you wish, you can add some heat to the dish by including a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.
- Using fresh cherry tomatoes will provide the best flavor, but canned tomatoes can be used in a pinch.
- Grate some fresh Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta just before serving to add extra flavor and creaminess.
How to Serve
Cherry tomato chicken pasta is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Its vibrant colors and delightful taste make it a crowd-pleaser. It can be served as a Dinner for a casual family dinner, or as a hearty side dish at a more elaborate gathering.
- Serve it with a fresh green salad and a vinaigrette on the side. The acidity of the vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
- You could also serve it alongside some garlic bread. The bread is great for soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate.
- For a more complete meal, pair this pasta with a crisp white wine and some roasted vegetables. This combo makes for an elegant dinner that's surprisingly easy to prepare.
Similar Recipes
Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Tomato Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pound pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until no longer pink in the center.
- Add the minced garlic and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté until the tomatoes begin to burst and release their juices.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
- Cook the pasta just until it's al dente, or firm to the bite, to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- To make the chicken juicy and tender, don't overcook it. It's fully cooked when it's no longer pink inside, or when a thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F.
- If you wish, you can add some heat to the dish by including a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.
- Using fresh cherry tomatoes will provide the best flavor, but canned tomatoes can be used in a pinch.
- Grate some fresh Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta just before serving to add extra flavor and creaminess.