Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta
Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta is a delicious and simple dish that can be served as an appetizer, side or even main course. This classic Italian-inspired dish is made with the freshest ingredients – tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, and parmesan cheese.
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Servings: 4 people
Calories: 423kcal
Ingredients
- 8 oz of dry penne pasta ( Half a pound bag or box. If you’re on a gluten-free diet, you can use a gluten-free variant)
- 8 oz boneless and skinless chicken breasts (approx. 2 pieces), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 oz fresh Parmesan cheese (or plant-based substitute if vegan/dairy free), sliced into bite-size pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsps olive oil
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes with the juices included
- 10 leaves basil, chopped into small pieces.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the directions on the box.
- Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and chicken and cook until they are lightly browned about 5 minutes.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, add in the diced tomatoes with their juices and reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- When ready to serve, drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the chicken and tomato mixture. Stir until everything is combined, stirring in parmesan pieces and chopped basil leaves.
- Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add some red pepper flakes or freshly cracked black pepper when cooking the chicken and garlic.
- Instead of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can also use cooked Italian sausage for a new twist on this dish.
- For an even creamier sauce, stir in some heavy cream or half-and-half after adding the mozzarella pieces.
