There’s something magically comforting about a steaming plate of Tomato Basil Chicken Ziti. This dish is a celebration of classic Italian flavors that effortlessly combines juicy chicken, aromatic basil, and perfectly cooked ziti noodles, all swathed in a luscious tomato sauce. It’s a family favorite that combines both simplicity and elegance, ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Let’s bring a bit of Italy to your kitchen and make memories with every bite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Toss in the cooked ziti pasta and chopped fresh basil, stirring until everything is evenly combined and heated through.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with extra fresh basil leaves before serving.
Helpful Tips
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese to the sauce before mixing in the pasta.
- Feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own chicken breasts.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Pairings
Tomato Basil Chicken Ziti pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and a glass of crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio. For dessert, consider serving a light lemon sorbet or a classic tiramisu.
We can’t wait to see your delicious creations! Share your Tomato Basil Chicken Ziti with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag @Zynahz on Instagram. We love hearing your feedback, so don’t hesitate to leave a review on our website www.zynahz.com. Stay updated on the latest recipes and kitchen tips by subscribing to our newsletter and following Zynahz on social media. Happy cooking!
