Garlic Basil Chicken Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

A fresh and flavorful pasta dish loaded with juicy chicken, sweet cherry tomatoes, garlic, and fragrant basil. This quick dinner is light, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Description

Tender bites of chicken are sautéed with garlic and cherry tomatoes until juicy and slightly caramelized, then tossed with pasta and fresh basil for a bright, savory meal. The tomatoes create a light natural sauce that coats every bite beautifully.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless chicken breasts, sliced
• 8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/3 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
• Extra basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water and drain.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
6. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened and slightly blistered.
7. Stir in red pepper flakes if using.
8. Return chicken to the skillet.
9. Add cooked pasta and reserved pasta water. Toss everything together.
10. Stir in fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.
11. Serve warm with extra basil and Parmesan on top.

Q/A

Q1: Can I use another protein instead of chicken?

Yes! Shrimp, turkey, or even tofu work great in this recipe.

Q2: Which pasta works best?

Penne, linguine, spaghetti, and bowtie pasta all pair nicely with the light tomato-garlic sauce.

Q3: Can I make it creamy?

Absolutely. Add 1/4 cup heavy cream or cream cheese while tossing the pasta.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q5: Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli are delicious additions.