If you’ve ever found yourself craving a dish that walks the perfect line between comfort food and restaurant elegance, look no further than Chicken Pasta in Creamy Tomato Sauce. Imagine tender chicken, ribbons of pasta, and a velvety sauce bursting with tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of wine—it’s a symphony of flavors that always brings me back for seconds. This recipe is perfect for family dinner or a special occasion, yet utterly simple and absolutely irresistible.

Chicken Pasta in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

I love how Chicken Pasta in Creamy Tomato Sauce uses ingredients that are humble but truly shine together. Each one brings something special—whether it’s depth, creaminess, or a burst of freshness—making this dish unforgettable.

Linguine or fettuccine (3/4 lb): The perfect base, their flat shape captures every drop of creamy sauce.
Salt and olive oil (1 Tbsp for pasta): Don’t skip these—they season your pasta and help prevent sticking.
Chicken breasts (1 lb): Trimmed and tender, these provide the hearty protein to balance the rich sauce.
Salt and black pepper: Use generously on the chicken for deep, crave-worthy flavor.
Olive oil (2 Tbsp for chicken): Helps achieve that golden sear and a juicy, moist result.
Roma tomatoes (6, diced): Fresh tomatoes are the secret to brightness and authentic Italian character.
Green onion (1/4 cup, finely chopped): Adds a savory, aromatic layer that elevates the sauce.
Hot chili flakes (1/4 tsp, optional): For a gentle kick—you can absolutely leave these out for a kid-friendly twist.
Fresh basil (2 Tbsp, plus more for serving): Infuses the dish with sweet, peppery notes and gorgeous green color.
Garlic (1 clove, minced): Just one clove makes the sauce intensely aromatic and inviting.
Unsalted butter (4 Tbsp): Gives the sauce its luxurious body and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Chardonnay or dry white wine (1 cup): The acidity rounds out the flavors and makes the sauce truly restaurant-worthy.
Heavy whipping cream (1/2 cup): Silky, rich cream ties everything together like culinary magic.
Black pepper (1/8 tsp or to taste): Don’t be shy—freshly cracked is always best!
Salt (1/2 tsp or to taste): For perfect seasoning so every bite pops.
Parmesan cheese (for serving): Freshly grated, it brings sharp, nutty depth right at the table.
Fresh parsley (for serving): A little sprinkle offers color and a fresh finish.
Additional diced Roma tomatoes and basil (optional): For the finishing touch, these give brightness and a pop of color.

How to Make Chicken Pasta in Creamy Tomato Sauce

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a generous pot of salted water to a boil—it should taste a bit like the sea. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and your choice of linguine or fettuccine. Cook the pasta according to package directions until it’s perfectly al dente, meaning it still has a little bite in the center. Once done, drain and give it a quick rinse under cool water to stop the cooking. Set it aside while you work on the chicken and sauce.

Step 2: Prep and Cook the Chicken

Trim your chicken breasts and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Heat a wide skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, then add the olive oil. Place the chicken in the pan and sear for 5 minutes on one side until golden. Flip, cover with a lid, and let cook for another 5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear. Remove the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest at least 10 minutes before slicing against the grain—this keeps each piece juicy and flavorful.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Tomato Sauce

This is where the magic of Chicken Pasta in Creamy Tomato Sauce really takes shape! Using the same pan (don’t rinse it—you want every last bit of flavor), toss in the diced Roma tomatoes, green onion, a pinch of optional chili flakes, fresh basil, and garlic, along with the butter. Stir over medium-high heat until everything is beautifully aromatic and just starting to soften. Pour in the wine, bring it to a gentle bubble, and let it reduce until mostly evaporated, with about 1/4 cup of liquid left—this concentrates the flavors dramatically.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce and Combine

Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and another hit of salt and black pepper. The sauce will come together into a dreamy, luscious consistency. Slip the sliced chicken back into the pan, nestling it in the sauce, and let it reheat for a couple of minutes. Now add your cooked pasta and toss everything until each strand is gloriously coated in sauce, flecked with tomato and basil.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

It’s time for the grand finale! Plate the Chicken Pasta in Creamy Tomato Sauce right away, sprinkling with plenty of grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, and (if you want extra oomph) more diced tomatoes and basil. Each forkful is a celebration of flavor and comfort—you’ll honestly have trouble saving leftovers.

How to Serve Chicken Pasta in Creamy Tomato Sauce

Garnishes

For that true trattoria-style finish, I always shower my Chicken Pasta in Creamy Tomato Sauce with heaps of Parmesan cheese and a flurry of fresh parsley. Sometimes I like to add a few more fresh tomato dices and an extra sprinkle of basil for freshness and bright color.

Side Dishes

This pasta is such a star that it pairs beautifully with something simple—think a crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette or warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up every bit of that dreamy sauce. Roasted veggies like asparagus or a tangle of sautéed spinach are fantastic, too.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special gathering, try serving Chicken Pasta in Creamy Tomato Sauce in deep bowls with the chicken fanned on top and a swirl of extra sauce. If you’re hosting, you could build a pasta bar with bowls of extra cheese, chili flakes, and chopped herbs so guests can customize their plates. Sometimes, I even make it bite-sized by twirling pasta into “nests” for appetizers!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chicken Pasta in Creamy Tomato Sauce holds up surprisingly well in the fridge. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch something to look forward to!

Freezing

If you want to freeze this dish, portion the pasta and sauce together in airtight, freezer-safe containers. It should keep well for about 2 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve the creamy consistency and vibrant flavors.

Reheating

For the best results, gently reheat Chicken Pasta in Creamy Tomato Sauce on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally so everything heats evenly and maintains its luscious, silky texture. The microwave works in a pinch—just use low to medium power and give it a good stir halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

While linguine and fettuccine are classic for this recipe, feel free to use anything you have on hand—penne and rigatoni are also great at holding onto the creamy tomato sauce.

What can I substitute for the wine?

You can swap the Chardonnay for low-sodium chicken broth or even vegetable broth if you prefer not to use alcohol; the sauce will still be flavorful and luxurious.

Is there a dairy-free option for the sauce?

Absolutely! Substitute coconut cream or your favorite plant-based cream for the heavy whipping cream, and use a vegan butter alternative for the sauce base. The results will be just as creamy and delicious.

Can I add vegetables to make it a one-pan meal?

Definitely. Sliced bell peppers, baby spinach, or even zucchini can be stirred into the sauce along with the tomatoes. It’s a wonderful way to make Chicken Pasta in Creamy Tomato Sauce extra vibrant and wholesome.

How can I make this dish less spicy?

Simply leave out the chili flakes. The dish is exceedingly flavorful even without the extra heat, making it ideal for little ones or anyone sensitive to spice.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner that’s as gorgeous as it is comforting, Chicken Pasta in Creamy Tomato Sauce is your new go-to. Gather your ingredients, grab your favorite wineglass, and treat yourself (and your favorite people) to a dish that’s pure happiness in every bite.