Table of Contents
Intro
Looking for Quick Dinner Ideas that don’t skimp on flavor? I totally get it—weeknights can be hectic, and we crave something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. Enter this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta, one of those Simple Dinner Ideas that feels gourmet but comes together in under 30 minutes.
This recipe has saved me more than once when balancing work, family, and my own craving for a comforting meal. Whether you’re exploring Healthy Dinner Ideas, Cheap Dinners For A Family, or just some Easy Food Recipes to add to your rotation, you’ll find this pasta a delightful go-to.
What Is Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta?
Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta is a luscious one-pot dish combining tender chicken pieces, ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a rich cream sauce tossed with your favorite pasta. It hits all the right notes—savory, tangy, and a hint of sweetness from the tomatoes.
Fans love it because it’s adaptable: you can swap in gluten-free pasta for an Easy Healthy Dinner, toss in extra veggies for more nutrients, or add a sprinkle of cheese for that perfect melt. It’s also a fantastic entry in your Weeknight Dinner Ideas lineup, turning simple pantry staples into something memorable.
This dish bridges the gap between Lazy Dinners and more elaborate meals, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks and families looking for Kid Friendly Dinners that adults also enjoy.
Nutritional Benefits & Why It’s a Better Choice
Compared to heavy cream-based dishes loaded with butter, this pasta uses modest amounts of real cream balanced by tangy tomatoes, so you get richness without feeling weighed down. With lean chicken for protein and basil for antioxidants, it offers a nutrient boost over plain pasta bowls.
This recipe is a standout among Easy Meals For Dinner because it’s customizable: choose whole wheat or legume-based pasta for extra fiber and protein, or lighten it up with low-fat milk in place of cream for a healthier twist.
It’s also budget-friendly—perfect if you’re hunting for Cheap Dinners For A Family. A single batch serves four generously, and you can even stretch it into two meals by adding a side salad or garlic bread.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 580 mg |
Ingredients & Substitutions
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or fusilli works well)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Substitutions & Variations:
Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have:
- Use turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a lean or vegetarian option.
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free twist.
- Add spinach or zucchini for extra veggies.
- Stir in red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breast | Protein source | Turkey, tofu, chickpeas |
| Heavy Cream | Richness & texture | Half-and-half, coconut milk, Greek yogurt |
| Pasta | Carb base | Gluten-free, whole wheat, chickpea pasta |
| Tomatoes | Acidity & sweetness | Roasted red peppers, tomato sauce |
Equipment Needed
With Special Equipment
- Immersion blender (to smooth sauce)
- Nonstick skillet with lid for even cooking
- Digital kitchen scale (for precise measurements)
Without Special Equipment
- Regular saucepan or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Standard measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step: How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta
Prepare the Base
- Heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add chicken strips, season with salt and pepper, and cook until no pink remains, about 5–7 minutes.
- Pour in diced tomatoes (with juices) and simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
Add Flavors / Swirl / Toppings
- Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Toss in cooked pasta and fresh basil leaves, ensuring each strand is coated in sauce.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Chill / Freeze / Cook / Bake
- Serve immediately for best texture. If preparing ahead, cool completely and refrigerate.
- To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water as needed.
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
Texture Problems
If your sauce is too thin, simmer a few extra minutes without the lid to reduce. If too thick, add a little pasta water or cream to loosen it.
Adjusting Sweetness & Flavor
Tomatoes vary in sweetness. If the sauce tastes too acidic, stir in a pinch of sugar or a drizzle of honey. For more depth, add a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or simple garlic bread. A sprinkle of fresh basil or extra Parmesan amps up the presentation.
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Sauce too watery | Simmer uncovered to reduce liquid |
| Pasta sticking | Rinse lightly after cooking or toss with oil |
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
Fruit Combinations
- Sundried tomatoes and a touch of balsamic for sweetness
- Roasted red peppers for a smoky fruit twist
Nut & Chocolate Additions
- Toasted pine nuts for crunch
- A dash of cocoa powder in the sauce for depth (trust me!)
Spices & Extracts
- A sprinkle of Italian seasoning or herbes de Provence
- Pinch of smoked paprika for warmth
- Few drops of garlic or onion extract for a flavor boost
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For meal prep, divide into single servings. When reheating, add a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce. This dish doesn’t freeze as well as Dump And Go Crockpot Dinners but works fine if you consume within a month.
More Ideas with Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta
- Turn it into a baked casserole by topping with mozzarella and broiling until golden.
- Use leftover chicken to make a creamy soup—just thin with broth.
- Stir in spinach or kale at the end for a veggie-packed variation.
- Serve over zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Conclusion
This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta is the perfect addition to your Quick Dinner Ideas and Weeknight Dinner Ideas arsenal. It’s tasty, adaptable, and comes together in a flash—ideal for families, busy professionals, or anyone craving a comforting meal without fuss. Give it a try tonight, then save and share!
Follow me on Pinterest for more Quick Dinner Ideas
FAQ about Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta
What makes this dish a top Quick Dinner Idea?
You can have it on the table in under 30 minutes using pantry staples and minimal prep—perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I turn this into a Weeknight Dinner Idea for picky eaters?
Absolutely! It’s naturally creamy and mild, making it a hit for Kid Friendly Dinners. You can hide extra veggies in the sauce if needed.
Is this recipe suitable for Healthy Dinner Ideas?
Yes—use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt, and add extra veggies to boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
How can I make this recipe part of Cheap Dinners For A Family?
Buy chicken in bulk, choose store-brand pasta and canned tomatoes, and stretch servings with a side salad or garlic bread to feed more mouths on a budget.
Can I prepare this recipe as part of my meal prep routine?
Definitely. Cook everything ahead, cool completely, and portion into airtight containers. Reheat with a splash of cream for an Easy Meals For Dinner solution.
Are there any Simple Dinner Ideas to use up leftovers?
Leftover pasta makes a great base for a quick soup or a skillet bake with extra cheese—no new ingredients needed.
