Chicken Penne Pasta Red Sauce

Intro:
Looking for a cozy and delicious meal to warm up your evenings at home? Look no further than our flavorful Chicken Penne Pasta Red Sauce recipe. This comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy date night in. The tender chicken, savory flavors of the red sauce, and al dente penne pasta come together to create a satisfying and heartwarming meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb penne pasta
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

2. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Push the onion and garlic to one side of the skillet and add the chicken pieces to the other side. Cook the chicken until it is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Once the chicken is cooked, combine it with the onion and garlic in the skillet. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and sprinkle in the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes, if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

6. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the sauce.

7. Serve the Chicken Penne Pasta Red Sauce hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and freshness.

This Chicken Penne Pasta Red Sauce is a delightful dish that will surely become a favorite in your home. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and the richness of the red sauce over perfectly cooked penne pasta is a winning recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious meal with your loved ones and create lasting memories around the dining table.