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Cooking pasta is both an art and a science, and getting it just right is crucial for the overall success of your Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta Delight. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt not only enhances the flavor of the pasta but also helps to prevent the noodles from sticking together. Once the water is boiling, add your choice of pasta—linguine or penne work exceptionally well for this dish.

Easy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta

Discover the deliciousness of Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta Delight, a perfect blend of tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a vibrant tomato-basil sauce. This easy recipe embodies the essence of Italian cooking, making it ideal for weeknight meals or special gatherings. With fresh ingredients and simple preparation, you can create a dish that’s not only wholesome but also visually appealing. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this culinary treasure that brings everyone together at the table.
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Ingredients
  

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

8 oz penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

    Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried basil. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it into strips.

      Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, followed by the balsamic vinegar. Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

        Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Toss in the sliced chicken and chopped fresh basil, mixing everything together. Heat through for another 2-3 minutes.

          Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Toss lightly to combine, and if desired, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick. Serve warm, garnished with extra fresh basil if you like!

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 30 mins | 4 servings