There’s something undeniably comforting about a meal that cooks all in one pot—less mess, fewer dishes, and a rich blend of flavors that practically marry themselves. That’s exactly why I adore this One-Pot Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta. The moment the juicy chicken simmers with fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, the kitchen fills with a warmth that promises a satisfying, home-cooked dinner in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a busy home cook craving something hearty without the fuss or a food lover tired of takeout, this recipe is a game-changer. It’s effortless, packed with vibrant flavors, and perfect for savoring any night of the week. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Why choose One-Pot Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe requires just one pot, cutting down cleanup time dramatically. Bursting with flavor: Juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil create an irresistible taste combo. Speedy and satisfying: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. Versatile and comforting: Ideal for family dinners or impressing guests without stress. Nutrient-rich and homemade: Say goodbye to boring fast food and hello to wholesome satisfaction.
One-Pot Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta Ingredients
For the Chicken and Sauce
- Boneless chicken breasts – Choose tender pieces for juicy bites that soak up the sauce perfectly.
- Cherry tomatoes – Use ripe, sweet tomatoes to bring brightness and natural sweetness to the dish.
- Fresh basil leaves – Adds a fragrant, herbaceous note essential to the One-Pot Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta flavor.
- Garlic cloves – Mince finely to infuse the sauce with warm, savory depth.
- Olive oil – Use extra virgin for a rich, fruity base that complements the fresh ingredients.
For the Pasta and Broth
- Penne or rigatoni pasta – These shapes hold the sauce beautifully while cooking evenly in one pot.
- Chicken broth – Provides a savory, rich cooking liquid that enhances the overall taste.
- Salt and pepper – Season to taste for balanced, flavorful results.
Optional Add-Ins and Finishers
- Parmesan cheese – Sprinkle on top for a nutty, salty finish that melts into the warm pasta.
- Red pepper flakes – Add a pinch if you like a subtle kick of heat to brighten the flavors.
- Fresh spinach – Stir in at the end for a boost of color and nutrients.
How to Make One-Pot Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta
- Heat Oil: Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute, to create a rich, fruity base for flavors to bloom.
- Sear Chicken: Add seasoned chicken breasts to the pot, cooking 4 minutes per side until golden brown, almost cooked through, and juicy.
- Sauté Garlic: Reduce heat to medium, then stir in minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and lightly golden, about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add Tomatoes & Broth: Pour in halved cherry tomatoes and chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits, season with salt and pepper, and stir gently to combine.
- Add Pasta: Add the penne pasta to the pot, nestling pieces into the sauce, pressing down so each is fully submerged beneath the liquid.
- Simmer Covered: Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook 12–15 minutes, stirring halfway, until the pasta is perfectly al dente.
- Finish & Garnish: Remove pot from heat and stir in fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese, allowing residual heat to wilt herbs and melt cheese evenly.
Optional: Garnish with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil for shine.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for One-Pot Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta
Feel free to customize this dish to suit your taste or dietary needs, making every bite uniquely yours.
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Dairy-Free: Swap out Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to ensure everyone can enjoy this meal without any gluten concerns, allowing the flavors to shine just as brightly.
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Vegetarian: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or hearty lentils for a filling plant-based option; just add extra broth for moisture.
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Add Vegetables: Toss in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers during the cooking process for added nutrition and color; they’ll soak up the delicious sauce.
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Spicy Kick: For a bolder flavor, add jalapeños or a nice pinch of cayenne pepper while the garlic is sautéing; bring on that heat!
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Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate olives and artichoke hearts to give your dish a Mediterranean flair, marrying new flavors that will impress your guests.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs like oregano or thyme in place of basil to give the dish a whole new flavor profile; each herb brings its charm.
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Citrus Zest: A splash of lemon juice or a hint of zest can brighten the overall profile and enhance the flavors of the tomatoes and chicken, taking it to the next level.
What to Serve with One-Pot Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta?
Nothing completes this delightful dish quite like the right side pairings that enhance its vibrant flavors.
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Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted with a buttery richness, it’s ideal for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
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Steamed Green Beans: Crisp and bright, they add a refreshing crunch and a pop of color to your meal.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette offers a zesty contrast to the warm pasta’s richness. The freshness of mixed greens brings balance and vibrancy.
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Parmesan Crisps: A crunchy, salty snack that echoes the cheese in the pasta dish, adding texture and a gourmet touch.
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Moscato Wine: This sweet, fruity wine complements the fresh tomatoes and basil, creating a delightful pairing with every sip.
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Lemon Sorbet: A light, refreshing dessert that cleanses the palate after the savory meal, leaving a bright citrus finish to round off the evening.
Expert Tips for One-Pot Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta
- Choose even chicken pieces: Opt for uniform boneless chicken breasts to ensure they cook evenly and remain juicy throughout.
- Don’t over-stir the pasta: Stir gently and only halfway during simmering to prevent the pasta from getting mushy.
- Use ripe cherry tomatoes: Sweet, ripe tomatoes boost the vibrant flavor and help create a naturally rich, thick sauce.
- Fresh basil last: Add basil at the end off the heat to preserve its bright color and fresh aroma.
- Watch the liquid level: Make sure pasta is fully submerged in broth to cook evenly, adjusting liquid slightly if needed.
How to Store and Freeze One-Pot Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring all the pasta is well-coated in sauce to prevent dryness.
Freezer: Freeze in a suitable container for up to 2 months, allowing it to cool completely before sealing. Portion out for easy reheating.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or water, restoring its delicious flavor and texture.
Make Ahead Options
These One-Pot Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken, garlic, and sauce up to 24 hours in advance, simply sear the chicken, sauté the garlic, then mix in the tomatoes and broth. Store this mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s also great to chop the fresh basil and keep it separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain its vibrant flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, just add the pasta to the prepped sauce and cook as directed; the result will be just as delicious with minimal effort, saving you precious time on busy weeknights.
One-Pot Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my chicken breasts are fresh and good for this recipe?
Look for boneless chicken breasts that are pale pink with no dark spots or unpleasant odor. Fresh chicken should be firm to the touch and moist but not slimy—these signs guarantee juicy, flavorful bites in your pasta.
Can I store leftover One-Pot Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta in the fridge?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, make sure the pasta is thoroughly coated with sauce to prevent it from drying out.
Is it possible to freeze this dish, and how should I do it?
Yes, freezing is a great option! Let the pasta cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or water to revive its saucy goodness.
What if my pasta gets too mushy or sticks together during cooking?
This can happen if you over-stir or cook the pasta too long. Try stirring gently only halfway through the simmering process and keep a close eye on cooking time to achieve that perfect al dente bite. Also, ensure the pasta is fully submerged in broth for even cooking.
Is this recipe safe for pets or suitable for people with allergies?
This dish contains garlic and onion elements which can be harmful to dogs and cats, so avoid sharing it with pets. For those with allergies, particularly to dairy, you can skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative without sacrificing flavor.
Easy One-Pot Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta That Bursts with Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
- Add seasoned chicken breasts to the pot, cooking 4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Reduce heat to medium, then stir in minced garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in halved cherry tomatoes and chicken broth, season with salt and pepper, and stir gently.
- Add the penne pasta to the pot, nestling pieces into the sauce.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook 12–15 minutes.
- Remove pot from heat and stir in fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.
