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Tomato Basil Pasta with Grilled Chicken

Tomato Basil Pasta with Grilled Chicken
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Tomato Basil Pasta with Grilled Chicken is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner option that combines tender grilled chicken, fresh ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and perfectly cooked pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, this balanced and vibrant dish is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, delivering a comforting yet fresh meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 chicken breasts, lean and juicy

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 3–4 fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

Pasta

  • 8 oz penne or spaghetti pasta

Oils and Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional), to taste

Optional Toppings

  • Parmesan cheese, freshly grated (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill them over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and nicely charred. Remove from grill and let rest before slicing into strips to keep juices locked in.
  2. Cook the pasta: While the chicken grills, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  3. Sauté garlic and tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant but not browned. Add chopped fresh tomatoes and cook briefly until they soften and release their juices.
  4. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic. Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water and stir until the sauce lightly coats the pasta strands.
  5. Add fresh basil and grilled chicken: Tear fresh basil leaves and fold them into the pasta mixture for fresh herb flavor. Top with sliced grilled chicken, distributing evenly for perfect bites.

Notes

  • Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients to maximize flavor.
  • Let the grilled chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
  • Reserve pasta water when draining; it helps achieve a silky sauce.
  • Add basil at the end to preserve its bright, fresh flavor.
  • Adjust salt and pepper seasoning gradually and taste as you go.

Nutrition

Keywords: Tomato Basil Pasta, Grilled Chicken, Quick Dinner, Healthy Pasta, Italian Recipe, Weeknight Meal

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/tomato-basil-pasta-with-grilled-chicken/