Description
A fresh, summer-inspired pasta dish with ripe cherry tomatoes, garlic, and basil, complemented by pan-seared chicken, ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or spaghetti)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (reserve a few leaves for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water, salt it generously, and bring to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2–1 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken. Cook 6–7 minutes per side, until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken to a cutting board and let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
- In the same skillet, lower heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Sauté about 30 seconds until fragrant — don’t let it brown. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and blister, about 3–4 minutes. Use the back of a spoon to gently press a few tomatoes to release juices.
- Stir in the chopped basil and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar. Cook 30–60 seconds more to marry flavors. If it feels dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the mixture.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Arrange the sliced chicken over the pasta.
- Serve immediately with a generous grating of Parmesan and a few extra basil leaves.
Notes
For dairy-free, omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. Refrigerate leftovers and serve within 3–4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian