Simple Pasta with Chicken and Fresh Tomato Sauce

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. 2

   While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken cubes with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper. Add chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. 3

   Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally and gently mashing the tomatoes with the back of a spoon, until they break down and form a sauce.

4. 4

   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Add the chopped fresh basil and stir to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash or two of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

5. 5

   Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.