Description
Learn how to make delicious Chicken Tomato Basil Pasta with this easy recipe. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner option. Click to get cooking!
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts (500 g)
- 2 400 gram tin chopped tomatoes (14.5 oz (411 g) can)
- 1 onion – diced
- 3 garlic cloves – diced
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) tomato puree
- 1 tsp (5 ml) dried basil
- small bunch fresh basil – chopped
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
- salt and pepper
- grated cheese – to garnish
- 500 grams spaghetti – or pasta of your choice
Instructions
- Warm the olive oil in a deep pan or skillet on medium heat. Add the diced onions with a small amount of salt and sauté for around 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Mix in the chopped garlic, dried basil, tomato puree, and a dash of black pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the garlic releases its aroma.
- In the meantime, cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create two thinner pieces, allowing for quicker and more even cooking. Lightly season each piece with salt and pepper.
- Pour the canned chopped tomatoes into the pan, then fill the cans halfway with water. Swirl to collect any leftover tomato bits and pour this tomato-infused water into the pan.
- Stir everything well, then bring to a gentle boil.
- Place the chicken cutlets into the pan, ensuring they are submerged in the tomato sauce. If using a wider pan and the chicken is not fully covered, spoon some sauce over the chicken and remember to turn them over midway through the cooking process.
- Lower the heat and let the sauce gently simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- As the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until it is just firm to the bite—typically 1-2 minutes less than the package suggests. Drain the pasta, reserving one cup of the cooking water.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and shred using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the tomato sauce and add the chopped fresh basil.
- Combine the pasta with the sauce, adding about half a cup of the reserved pasta water. Use tongs to mix everything thoroughly, adding more pasta water if needed to achieve your preferred sauce consistency.
- Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed, and serve with a sprinkle of grated cheese and extra fresh basil on top.
Notes
- Opt for whole wheat or vegetable-based pasta to boost fiber and nutrients.
- Enhance the sauce with a touch of balsamic vinegar or a hint of sugar.
- Personalize your dish with veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added taste and nutrition.
