Pan-Seared Chicken with Tomato Basil Pasta

Tender chicken breasts and vibrant tomatoes simmered in a fresh basil sauce over perfectly cooked spaghetti, ready in 25 minutes.

Cuisine: Italian

Category: Quick Meals

Prep: 10 minutes. Cook: 20 minutes.

Serves 4.

Ingredients

• 4 (6 oz each) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 12 oz spaghetti
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves, minced garlic
• 1/2 cup, halved cherry tomatoes
• 1/4 cup, chopped fresh basil
• 1/2 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Season chicken breasts with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken and cook 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F, then set aside.
2. Step 2: Add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté 1 minute until fragrant. Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Step 3: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook 12 oz spaghetti for 8-10 minutes until al dente, drain, and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
4. Step 4: Add drained spaghetti to skillet with 1/2 cup reserved pasta water, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1/4 cup chopped basil. Toss vigorously until sauce coats pasta.
5. Step 5: Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Slice cooked chicken and arrange over pasta. Garnish with remaining 1/4 cup basil.