The first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tomato Pasta, I was living in a tiny apartment with a kitchen barely big enough for a cutting board and a pot. I was experimenting with new recipes, and Jamie’s style of fresh, simple ingredients caught my attention. The moment I pulled that dish together, the smell was so amazing that it immediately became my go-to comfort food. Even if you’re not a chef, this recipe shows you that with a little love and a handful of pantry essentials, you can create something truly special.
This dish is all about fresh flavors and quick preparation. No fuss, no complicated steps. Just quality ingredients coming together to create a comforting meal.
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tomato Pasta Recipe
This recipe isn’t just about throwing some chicken and pasta together. It’s about balancing savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors in every bite. The tomatoes bring a rich depth of flavor, while the chicken gives it that satisfying protein kick.
When I made it for the first time, I was skeptical about how the ingredients would work together. Would the sauce really be as good as Jamie says? Well, spoiler alert-it was. And not only was it good, but the balance between the juiciness of the tomatoes and the tenderness of the chicken was a game-changer.
Here’s how Jamie does it.
Ingredients Needed
Before you start, check if you have these essentials in your kitchen:
- Chicken breasts: I love boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook quickly and evenly. You can use thighs if you prefer a juicier cut.
- Cherry tomatoes: Sweet, slightly tangy, and they cook down into a lovely sauce. You can also use canned tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t in season.
- Pasta: Jamie uses penne, but you can choose whatever pasta you prefer. The sauce clings beautifully to penne, but spaghetti works just as well.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is key here. It adds an aromatic depth that really ties everything together.
- Olive oil: A must for sautéing and for adding that silky texture to the sauce.
- Basil: Fresh basil is the heart of this recipe. Its fragrant, slightly peppery flavor adds a layer of brightness.
- Parmesan cheese: For garnish and a little extra creamy, salty goodness on top.
- Salt and pepper: To season the chicken and balance the flavors.
These ingredients are the building blocks, but they come together in a way that makes it feel like you’ve spent hours cooking.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tomato Pasta
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s get cooking. Here’s the step-by-step process:
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Prep The Chicken
- Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Sauté Garlic And Chicken
- Heat a bit of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and let it sizzle for about a minute until fragrant.
- Toss the chicken into the pan and cook until it’s golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
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Cook The Tomatoes
- While the chicken is cooking, cut the cherry tomatoes in half. Add them to the pan with the chicken and garlic.
- Let the tomatoes soften and release their juices, about 5 minutes. This will create a simple, delicious sauce.
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Cook The Pasta
- While the chicken and tomatoes are simmering, cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Make sure to keep some pasta water for later.
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Combine Everything
- When the pasta is done, add it straight to the pan with the chicken and tomatoes. Toss everything together, adding a little pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta.
- Add a generous handful of chopped basil and stir to incorporate.
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Finish With Cheese
- Grate some fresh parmesan on top before serving. The heat will melt the cheese right into the pasta, creating a creamy texture.
And just like that, you’ve got yourself a bowl of rich, savory, comforting pasta.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s dive into why these ingredients work so well together.
- Chicken breasts: They are lean but flavorful. Their subtle taste allows them to soak up the juices from the tomatoes and garlic.
- Cherry tomatoes: These tiny gems are packed with sugar and acidity, making them perfect for creating a natural sauce without added sugar or artificial flavors.
- Garlic: It’s the ultimate flavor enhancer. When sautéed in oil, garlic releases its natural oils and compounds, creating an aromatic base for the dish.
- Basil: Fresh herbs like basil contain aromatic oils that make them a natural pairing for both tomatoes and chicken. Their slight peppery note contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Parmesan: The umami flavor of parmesan complements the freshness of the dish while adding a salty creaminess that rounds it all out.
Each ingredient is simple on its own, but together they create something elevated.
Expert Tips
- Use fresh tomatoes: While canned tomatoes work in a pinch, fresh cherry tomatoes really enhance the overall flavor of the sauce. They burst and create a sweeter, more vibrant base.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: You want your chicken to be tender and juicy, not dry and tough. Keep an eye on it, and don’t let it sit in the pan too long.
- Reserve pasta water: This starchy water is a secret weapon. It helps the sauce cling to the pasta and gives it a velvety texture.
- Balance with basil: Add fresh basil towards the end of cooking to keep its flavor vibrant. If you add it too early, it will lose its fresh taste and become wilted.
Recipe Variations
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ideas for customizing it:
- Add vegetables: You could throw in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for more texture and flavor.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped chili for a bit of heat.
- Substitute proteins: Swap the chicken for turkey, shrimp, or even tofu if you’re going for a vegetarian version.
- Vegan twist: Omit the chicken and cheese and use a plant-based protein like chickpeas or lentils for a heartier option.
- Creamy version: Stir in a spoonful of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese for a richer, creamier sauce.
Final Words
Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned pro, this Chicken Tomato Pasta recipe is a win. The blend of ingredients is balanced, and the cooking process is straightforward but still feels special. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a chef, even if you’re just starting out.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tomato Pasta?
You’ll need chicken breasts, tomatoes, garlic, onions, basil, pasta, olive oil, and a few other basic seasonings.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tomato Pasta?
The whole dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Can I Use Other Types Of Pasta For This Recipe?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like, but Jamie often suggests something like penne or spaghetti.