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Homemade Easy Pasta Dinner with Chicken recipe photo

Easy Pasta Dinner with Chicken

This Easy Pasta Dinner with Chicken is a family favorite! Quick, comforting, and full of flavor, it’s perfect for any night of the week.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Dinner:
  • 1 jar pasta sauce your favorite flavor
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
  • 1 chopped onion (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced, optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped)
  • 1 cup cream
  • 1 lb pasta bronze-cut Italian recommended
  • 2 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking the chicken
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning blend
  • ¾ cup Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
  • Basil leaves (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Colander
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

Cooking Instructions:
  1. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. If using, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. While the onions and garlic are cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning blend. In another skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  4. In the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic, pour in the jar of pasta sauce and the cup of cream. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  5. Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well-coated. Stir in the fresh chopped basil for an extra burst of flavor.
  6. Slice the cooked chicken breasts and serve them on top of the pasta. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas.
  • Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.