Looking for a pasta dinner that is absolutely dreamy, packed with fresh flavor, and comes together in under an hour? Chicken Basil Tomato Pasta checks every box!

Imagine bites of tender chicken, twirled with al dente pasta, all tossed in a garlicky tomato sauce that's bursting with the sweetness of ripe tomatoes and the aromatic punch of fresh basil. This dish is vibrant, fragrant, and pure comfort on a plate.

The best part? It's quick, fuss-free, and perfect for a weeknight family favorite or an impromptu dinner with friends. This recipe was inspired by my first taste of summer in Tuscany and has become a long-time staple in my home.

Chicken Basil Tomato Pasta in a bowl topped with fresh basil and parmesan

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Incredibly quick and easy-ready in just 45 minutes for busy weeknights
Delivers bright, fresh flavors that feel restaurant-worthy
Flexible-swap proteins or make it vegetarian
Perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully

Key Ingredients for Chicken Basil Tomato Pasta

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Chicken Breast

Chicken breast adds lean, satisfying protein to the dish. Sliced into bite-sized pieces, it cooks quickly and stays tender. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness or even rotisserie chicken if you're short on time.

Fresh Basil

Fresh basil infuses the whole dish with a sweet, peppery aroma that's unmistakably Italian. Tear the leaves by hand right before adding them for maximum flavor. If you can't find fresh basil, a smaller amount of pesto will work in a pinch, though it will give a different character.

Cherry or Grape Tomatoes

Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved, bring bright pops of sweetness and juiciness to the pasta. Their skin helps them keep shape when cooked. If tomatoes aren't in season, good-quality canned whole tomatoes (chopped) are a worthy substitute.

Garlic

Fresh garlic brings depth and warmth to the sauce. Sauté it gently so it turns fragrant but not brown. If you prefer a milder flavor, try roasting garlic cloves ahead of time or reducing the amount slightly.

Pasta

Classic penne or spaghetti works beautifully, but you can use any pasta shape you like. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta also works well here-just cook until al dente for the best texture.

Instructions for Chicken Basil Tomato Pasta

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Build the Tomato Sauce

Lower heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add minced garlic and cook until just fragrant, about 1 minute. Add cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring, for 3-4 minutes until they soften and blister.

Simmer with Crushed Tomatoes

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, red pepper flakes (if using), ½ teaspoon salt, and lemon zest. Bring sauce to a gentle simmer and let cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

Toss Pasta and Finish

Return the cooked chicken and any juices to the skillet. Add the drained pasta, Parmesan cheese, and most of the basil (save some for garnish). Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a splash at a time until the sauce clings silky to the pasta. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Recipe Variations

Make It Vegetarian

Simply skip the chicken for a delicious meatless version. Try adding mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for substance and extra flavor.

Go Dairy-Free

Omit the Parmesan or swap for a dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan works remarkably well and keeps the sauce creamy.

Spice It Up

Craving a little heat? Amp up the red pepper flakes or add some sliced chili peppers along with the garlic.

Use Other Proteins

Swap the chicken for cooked shrimp, turkey, or even Italian sausage for a fun twist. Leftover roast chicken also works great for an even faster dinner.

Gluten-Free Option

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta instead of wheat-based pasta. Just be mindful of cook time to avoid overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chicken Basil Tomato Pasta with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette and a basket of warm garlic bread or focaccia. For a finishing touch, sprinkle extra fresh basil and a generous shave of Parmesan on top. Add a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a truly satisfying meal!

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth and warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions. This pasta is best fresh but can be frozen for up to 2 months-thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as above.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Basil Tomato Pasta (FAQ)

Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?

A: Fresh basil gives the most vibrant flavor, but in a pinch, use 2 teaspoons dried basil. Add it with the tomatoes to maximize flavor release.

Q: What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?

A: Penne, spaghetti, fusilli, or rigatoni all work great. Choose your favorite or use what you have on hand-just cook until al dente.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes! The sauce can be made a day in advance and gently reheated. Add cooked pasta and basil just before serving for the freshest texture and taste.

You're just one skillet and a handful of fresh ingredients away from pasta bliss! This Chicken Basil Tomato Pasta is bright, flavorful, and guaranteed to make any meal special. If you try this recipe, please leave a comment or rating below-I love hearing how it turns out in your kitchen!