# What You Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 12 oz short pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
02 - Salt for pasta water
→ Chicken
03 - 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 oz), cut into bite-sized pieces
04 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Tomato Basil Sauce
07 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
08 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
09 - 28 oz canned diced tomatoes with juice
10 - 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjusted to taste
12 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
13 - 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
→ Finishing
14 - 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
15 - Fresh basil leaves for garnish
# Step-by-step guide:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
02 - Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sauté until golden and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
04 - Pour in diced tomatoes with juice, sugar, salt, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
05 - Stir in chopped basil and cooked chicken. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes more to meld flavors.
06 - Add drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
