Description
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish topped with juicy, marinated chicken, fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil for a deliciously bright and savory meal.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
12 oz pasta (penne or spaghetti work well)
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked, then slice the chicken into strips.
- While the chicken is baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat and sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes, basil, balsamic vinegar, and oregano to the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the tomato mixture.
- Stir in the sliced chicken and sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra basil if desired.
Notes
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a veggie-packed alternative.
Different Pasta: While penne and spaghetti work well, farfalle (bowtie pasta) and fusilli are great alternatives.
Add a Kick: For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken.
Cheese Variations: Swap mozzarella and Parmesan for goat cheese or feta for a unique twist.
Grilled Chicken: Instead of baking, grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
