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Charred Tomato Basil Chicken Florentine Pasta

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This Charred Tomato Basil Chicken Florentine Pasta combines juicy chicken, blistered tomatoes, fresh basil, spinach, and a creamy Parmesan sauce for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions and comes together in about 40 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 12 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni)
  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving a little pasta water.
  2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden and fully cooked, then remove and slice.
  3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the same skillet and cook over high heat until blistered and lightly charred.
  4. Stir in the butter and garlic and cook until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then simmer for a few minutes.
  6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  7. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, then stir in the fresh basil.
  8. Return the sliced chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
  9. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Notes

  • Substitute shrimp for the chicken for a seafood variation.
  • Use sun-dried tomatoes or add mushrooms for additional flavor.
  • Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
  • Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently with a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth to maintain a creamy texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/charred-tomato-basil-chicken-florentine-pasta/