Skillet Cheesy Chicken Rotini with Homemade Tomato Basil Sauce

There’s something about the combination of flavors and textures in Skillet Cheesy Chicken Rotini with Homemade Tomato Basil Sauce that instantly transports me to a cozy kitchen filled with laughter and the aroma of homemade goodness. I remember the first time I attempted this dish; it was a rainy afternoon, and I craved something comforting and rich. The thought of creamy cheese mingling with perfectly cooked rotini and vibrant homemade tomato basil sauce made my mouth water. I decided to give it a go and was thrilled with the results! The ingredients came together beautifully, creating a warm, satisfying meal that my family adored.

This dish isn’t just about taste; it’s about the joy of cooking and the memories we create in the kitchen. Each layer of flavor tells a story, from the tender pieces of chicken to the fresh, fragrant basil and ripe tomatoes simmered into a luscious sauce. What’s more, it’s versatile enough to be a staple for busy weeknights while also being special enough for gatherings. Trust me, once you try making Skillet Cheesy Chicken Rotini with Homemade Tomato Basil Sauce, you’ll find it hard to resist repeating this culinary experience.

Everything You Need for Skillet Cheesy Chicken Rotini with Homemade Tomato Basil Sauce

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for achieving the perfect Skillet Cheesy Chicken Rotini with Homemade Tomato Basil Sauce. Each component plays a vital role in building the dish’s flavor profile. The harmony between the creamy cheese, juicy chicken, and fresh herbs creates a comforting and satisfying meal.

• 1 pound Just BARE Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy, this is the main protein that adds substance to the dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavors and brings out the natural taste of the chicken.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a savory kick to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil: Bright and fragrant, this herb elevates the sauce and complements the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley: A fresh touch that adds color and flavor to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon olive oil: Essential for cooking the chicken and adding richness.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing the garlic and forming the base of the sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Extra garlic for the sauce brings a robust flavor.
• 3 pounds fresh, ripe tomatoes, chopped: The star of the sauce, these provide natural sweetness and acidity.
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley: Adds freshness to the sauce.
• 1/2 cup chopped basil: More fresh basil means more flavor, creating a fragrant sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt: A seasoning that enhances the garlic flavor in the dish.
• black pepper: A seasoning used to taste, adding a bit of heat.
• 1 tablespoon freshly chopped oregano: Adds an earthy flavor to the sauce.
• 1 1/2 cups water: Helps to cook the pasta and form the sauce.
• 8 oz whole wheat Rotini: The pasta shape that holds the sauce beautifully and provides a hearty base.
• 2/3 cup reduced fat (or skim) mozzarella: Melts wonderfully and adds creaminess to the dish.
• 4 oz burrata, chopped: This luxurious cheese adds a creamy element on top.
• 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan: A finishing touch that enhances flavor and richness.
• 6 basil leaves, for garnish: Adds a fresh pop of color and flavor when serving.

Cooking Method for Skillet Cheesy Chicken Rotini with Homemade Tomato Basil Sauce

Cooking is an adventure, and making Skillet Cheesy Chicken Rotini with Homemade Tomato Basil Sauce is no different! Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering dish that will impress. Let’s dive into the cooking method:

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. This is the perfect temperature for baking chicken. While the oven heats, spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the chicken doesn’t stick.
2. In a medium bowl, place the chicken breasts. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle in salt, minced garlic, chopped basil, and parsley. Massage the herbs into the chicken to really infuse the flavors.
3. Place the seasoned chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the juices run clear and the chicken is no longer pink. Let it cool slightly before chopping it into small, bite-sized cubes.
4. While the chicken cools, heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden, which should take about a minute.
5. Add the chopped tomatoes, parsley, basil, oregano, garlic salt, and a pinch of black pepper to the skillet. Cook this mixture over medium heat until the tomatoes begin to break down and create a sauce-like consistency, approximately 5 to 8 minutes.
6. Transfer the sauce to a food processor or blender. Puree until smooth, tasting to adjust herbs or salt as needed. This step is essential for achieving a velvety sauce.
7. Return the smooth sauce to the skillet and add 1 1/4 cups of water, stirring to combine. Stir in the uncooked rotini and bring the mixture back to a boil.
8. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the pasta to cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until it reaches an al dente texture, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
9. Once the pasta is al dente, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses along with the chopped chicken, mixing until well combined.
10. Finally, place the chopped burrata on top of the pasta and place the skillet under the broiler just until the burrata melts and becomes slightly golden. This will give a beautiful finish to your dish.
11. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra parmesan if desired. Serve warm and watch everyone enjoy this delightful meal!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are so many ways to make Skillet Cheesy Chicken Rotini with Homemade Tomato Basil Sauce your own! Here are some tips to consider:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta moist.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Just thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as instructed.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar or gouda for unique flavor profiles.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to use other herbs like thyme or rosemary alongside the basil for added depth.

What Complements This Skillet Cheesy Chicken Rotini with Homemade Tomato Basil Sauce

When serving Skillet Cheesy Chicken Rotini with Homemade Tomato Basil Sauce, consider these delightful options:

• Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce, making every bite even more satisfying.
• Wine Pairing: Pair this meal with a crisp, refreshing white wine or a light-bodied red for a wonderful dining experience.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even for special occasions like anniversaries.
• Seasonal Pairings: Serve with seasonal vegetables, such as asparagus in spring or roasted squash in fall, to complement the dish beautifully.
• Leftover Creativity: Use leftovers to make a delicious casserole by mixing with more cheese and baking until bubbly.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Skillet Cheesy Chicken Rotini with Homemade Tomato Basil Sauce is a delightful dish that encapsulates everything we love about comforting meals. It’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and see how quickly it becomes a family favorite!

Skillet Cheesy Chicken Rotini with Homemade Tomato Basil Sauce

The ultimate comfort food, Skillet Cheesy Chicken Rotini with Homemade Tomato Basil Sauce combines creamy cheese, juicy chicken, and fresh herbs for an easy weeknight dinner. With every bite, you'll enjoy the rich flavors and delightful textures. Make it tonight for a meal everyone will love!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 480

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Just BARE Chicken Breasts
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 pounds fresh, ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• 1/2 cup chopped basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
• black pepper
• 1 tablespoon freshly chopped oregano
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 8 oz whole wheat Rotini
• 2/3 cup reduced fat (or skim) mozzarella
• 4 oz burrata, chopped
• 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan
• 6 basil leaves, for garnish

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Food Processor
• Grater
• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Blender
• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees and spray baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. Place chicken breasts in medium bowl and add olive oil, salt, garlic, basil, and parsley; massage chicken with herbs.
2. Place on baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until juices run clear and chicken is no longer pink. Allow chicken to cook for a few minutes then transfer to cutting board and chop chicken into small cubes; set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic; cook until fragrant and golden.
4. Add in tomatoes, parsley, basil, oregano, garlic salt, and some fresh black pepper. Cook over medium heat until tomatoes break down and become a little like sauce; about 5-8 minutes.
5. Transfer to a food processor or blender and puree until smooth. Taste sauce and add more herbs or salt if necessary.
6. Return the sauce to the pan, add 1 1/4 cups of water, and stir in uncooked pasta. Bring back to a boil, cover, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook pasta for 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
7. Once pasta is al dente, reduce heat to low and stir in mozzarella and parmesan cheeses and chopped chicken.
8. Place burrata on top of pasta and place under broiler until burrata melts and is slightly golden.
9. Garnish with basil leaves and extra parmesan, if desired. Serves 4-6.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the assembled dish before baking.
• Tip 3: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad.
• Tip 4: Replace the chicken with additional vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• Tip 5: Add some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Previous PostAutumn Kale Apple Quinoa Salad

Next Post French Onion Chicken Casserole

Meet Isla Banks

We eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make every dish look as bountiful as it tastes. I work on every stage of the process, from sourcing the freshest ingredients to styling the final shot. I tested this recipe repeatedly to provide you with the visual inspiration and reliability you need to cook with confidence.