Jamie Oliver Chicken Tomato Pasta Recipe [GUIDE]

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tomato Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes and pasta in a hearty, comforting sauce. It’s a perfect example of Jamie’s style-uncomplicated, fresh ingredients that come together to create something both delicious and satisfying. The beauty of this dish lies in its balance of flavors: the savory richness of the chicken, the sweet acidity of the tomatoes and the comforting texture of the pasta. It’s a go-to weeknight dinner for many, loved for its easy prep and crowd-pleasing taste.

Jamie Oliver Chicken Tomato Pasta Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tomato Pasta, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients that come together effortlessly:

1. Chicken breasts or thighs. Chicken is the star of this dish, giving it both texture and protein. Oliver often suggests thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option but breasts work just as well.
2. Cherry tomatoes – Fresh, sweet and juicy, these tomatoes form the base of the sauce. You can use other varieties if you prefer but the cherry tomatoes add a nice burst of flavor.
3. Garlic – A must-have in any pasta dish, garlic brings that essential aromatic depth to the sauce. Fresh, minced garlic is best here.
4. Olive oil – Used for sautéing and adding richness to the sauce. Opt for extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
5. Onions – They create a sweet base when cooked down and balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
6. Dried oregano and basil. These herbs complement the tomato sauce, bringing that Mediterranean flavor into the dish.
7. Pasta – You can choose any shape of pasta you prefer but Jamie often goes for something like spaghetti or penne. The pasta will absorb the tomato sauce beautifully.
8. Parmesan cheese – For finishing, you can’t go wrong with a generous sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan. It melts into the sauce and adds a rich, salty kick.
9. Fresh basil (optional) – For garnish, fresh basil adds a pop of green and a fragrant, herbal note to the finished dish.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need much in terms of equipment but a few key items will make cooking easier:

1. A large skillet or frying pan. This will be your base for cooking the chicken, onions and tomatoes. It’s best to have a wide pan so the ingredients can spread out and cook evenly.
2. A pot for boiling pasta. You’ll need a separate pot to cook your pasta, so it can be drained and mixed into the sauce.
3. A sharp knife and chopping board. For prepping your chicken, garlic, onions and tomatoes.
4. A grater – For grating the Parmesan at the end, though you can buy pre-grated if you’re in a rush.
5. A spoon or spatula. To stir and flip the chicken and other ingredients as you cook.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tomato Pasta

Making this pasta is relatively simple but there are a few key steps that elevate the dish:

1. Prepare your ingredients – Start by chopping your garlic and onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes. If you’re using chicken breasts, slice them into smaller pieces for quicker cooking.
2. Cook the chicken – Heat a bit of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook them until golden brown on both sides. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté garlic and onion. In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the onions and garlic. You want them to soften and become aromatic but not brown.
4. Add tomatoes and herbs. Once the onions and garlic are ready, toss in the cherry tomatoes and dried herbs. Let them cook down until the tomatoes burst open and release their juices, forming a rich sauce.
5. Cook the pasta – While the sauce simmers, cook your pasta in a pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. You want it al dente, so don’t overcook.
6. Combine everything – Add the cooked chicken back into the pan with the tomato sauce. Toss the cooked pasta into the pan as well, letting the pasta absorb the sauce and flavors. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little pasta water to loosen it up.
7. Finish with cheese and basil. Once everything is well mixed, serve the pasta with a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan. Sprinkle some fresh basil on top for that extra burst of flavor.

What I Learnt

Cooking Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tomato Pasta taught me the importance of balancing simple ingredients. The dish uses just a few basic things-chicken, tomatoes, garlic and pasta. but the flavors are bold and satisfying. I also learned how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality meal at home with a little bit of patience and attention to detail. The key is allowing the tomatoes to break down and create their natural sauce while giving the chicken time to develop a golden crust. Another takeaway is that the pasta’s texture is just as important as the sauce, so undercooking it slightly helps it absorb the sauce better.

What really stood out was how the dish feels like comfort food but without being too heavy. The freshness of the cherry tomatoes and basil makes it light and bright and the chicken adds enough substance to keep you full.

Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tomato Pasta

Jamie Oliver’s chicken tomato pasta is a solid, classic meal but what if you could play around with it a bit to make it even better or fit your mood? Let’s dive into some tweaks that can elevate this dish.

1. Add Herbs For Extra Flavor

   Jamie’s recipe often leans on basil and a bit of garlic but you can experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary or even oregano. These can bring a more earthy vibe to the dish, especially if you like a stronger herbal taste.

2. Make It Spicy

   If you love a bit of heat, toss in some red chili flakes or fresh chili peppers. You can adjust the level of spice to your preference but a little kick can really add excitement to the rich tomato sauce.

3. Swap The Chicken

   Not feeling chicken? Try swapping it for something else. You could use turkey, pork or even beef. For a vegetarian twist, go for grilled aubergine (eggplant), mushrooms or even some crispy tofu.

4. Boost The Veggies

   Sometimes you need more veggies to make it feel heartier. You could sneak in some zucchini, spinach or bell peppers into the sauce for added nutrients and texture. Roasting your veggies beforehand can also bring out a smoky depth of flavor.

5. Make It Creamy

   If you’re in the mood for a richer, creamier version, a splash of double cream or mascarpone cheese at the end can transform the sauce. It’s the perfect indulgence if you’re feeling fancy!

6. Change The Pasta

   Try switching out the spaghetti for other types of pasta. Rigatoni, penne or even farfalle work just as well. You can also go gluten-free with rice pasta or try whole wheat for a healthier twist.

Storage Tips For Leftovers

Leftovers are where the magic happens the next day but only if you store them right. Here’s how to keep that chicken tomato pasta fresh:

1. Cool Down Before Storing

   Let your pasta cool for a bit before storing it. Putting hot food directly in the fridge can lead to condensation and make it soggy when you reheat.

2. Airtight Containers

   Use airtight containers to keep moisture in and prevent your food from drying out or absorbing unwanted smells. The last thing you want is your pasta tasting like yesterday’s lasagna!

3. Separate The Pasta From The Sauce

   If you’re planning to store leftovers for more than one day, it’s better to keep the pasta and sauce separate. Pasta tends to soak up the sauce and can become mushy over time. So, store them in separate containers to maintain that perfect texture.

4. Reheating

   When reheating, you want to do it gently. Use a pan over low heat with a bit of olive oil or water to bring back some moisture. If using a microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out.

5. Use Within 3-4 Days

   Leftovers are best consumed within 3-4 days. After that, the flavor and texture start to decline. If you’re unsure, freeze it for up to a month, though it’s best to enjoy it fresh.

What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tomato Pasta?

A good side dish can take a meal from great to unforgettable. Here are some ideas for what to pair with your chicken tomato pasta:

1. Garlic Bread

   You can’t go wrong with garlic bread. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing side that complements the tomato sauce perfectly. You can go traditional with butter and garlic or spice things up with herbs like rosemary.

2. A Fresh Green Salad

   A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes and a balsamic glaze adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. The acidity from the vinegar helps cut through the creaminess of the sauce.

3. Roasted Vegetables

   Roasted veggies, like carrots, broccoli or sweet potatoes, are a great side to balance out the meal. Their sweetness pairs nicely with the tangy tomato sauce and gives you an extra nutritional boost.

4. Grilled Chicken Or Fish

   If you’re craving more protein, some grilled chicken breast or a light fish like salmon would go well with the pasta. Both have a mild flavor that won’t overpower the dish.

5. Cheese Plate

   For those who love cheese, a small cheese board with a variety of hard and soft cheeses like Parmesan, mozzarella and a little bit of blue cheese is a fun side to share before or after the meal.

FAQs

How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tomato Pasta Take To Cook?

It typically takes about 30-40 minutes to make this recipe, including prep and cooking time.

Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead Of Thighs For This Pasta?

Yes, you can use chicken breast, but chicken thighs tend to be more juicy and flavorful in this recipe.

What Kind Of Pasta Is Best For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tomato Pasta?

Jamie often uses penne or rigatoni, but any short pasta works well. Just pick your favorite!