One Skillet Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta on the Grill

Imagine tender, smoky grilled chicken nestled in a velvety, creamy tomato basil sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and made in a single skillet over your backyard grill. This One Skillet Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta brings the bright, fresh flavors of an Italian trattoria right to your outdoor cooking space, with that irresistible smoky char that only comes from cooking over an open flame. It’s the ultimate weeknight dinner that feels elegant but comes together with minimal effort and cleanup.

This beginner-friendly recipe is perfect for those evenings when you want something comforting, creamy, and packed with flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. By using your gas or charcoal grill, you’ll infuse the chicken with that delicious smoky depth while the creamy tomato basil sauce comes together beautifully in the same skillet. Everything cooks in one pan, which means you spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying a restaurant-quality meal in your own backyard.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Grill

Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F. If you’re using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals for direct heat and let them burn until they’re covered with a light layer of white ash. Consistent, medium-high heat is perfect for getting that beautiful char on your chicken.

2. Season and Grill the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Place a large cast-iron skillet on the grill grates and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown, has beautiful grill marks, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The smoky flavor from the charcoal or gas grill will infuse the chicken, giving it incredible depth. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to rest. Once cool enough to handle, slice or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and slightly charred. Add the minced garlic, dried basil, and dried oregano, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant. The smoky drippings from the chicken will infuse the aromatics with incredible depth.

4. Build the Sauce

Pour in the marinara sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on the grill. The heat will meld the flavors together beautifully.

5. Cook the Pasta

Add the dried pasta to the skillet, making sure it’s mostly submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and let it cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of the liquid. The sauce will thicken as the pasta cooks.

6. Add the Cheese and Chicken

Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Gently fold the diced or sliced grilled chicken back into the skillet and let everything heat through for 2-3 minutes.

7. Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot right from the skillet. The creamy, smoky chicken and pasta with the bright, herby tomato sauce is pure comfort food bliss.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta

• Use Smoked Paprika: This is our secret weapon for adding deep, smoky flavor, especially if you’re using a gas grill. It mimics the taste of a charcoal fire beautifully.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, as it will continue to soften slightly in the creamy sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts much more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
• Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it to your desired consistency.

Delicious Variations

Spicy Arrabbiata Version: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the garlic. The heat pairs beautifully with the smoky chicken and creamy tomato sauce.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach: Add 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 2 cups of fresh spinach with the pasta. The spinach will wilt into the sauce, adding color and nutrients.

Mushroom and Creamy Tomato Pasta: Add 8 oz of sliced cremini mushrooms when you sauté the onions. Their earthy flavor pairs wonderfully with the creamy tomato sauce and grilled chicken.

Vodka Sauce Version: Stir in 1/4 cup of vodka with the marinara sauce and add an extra 1/4 cup of cream. This variation is rich, decadent, and restaurant-worthy.

Pesto Tomato Pasta: Stir in 2 tablespoons of basil pesto with the Parmesan cheese. The pesto adds an extra layer of herby, garlicky flavor that elevates the dish.

Storage Instructions

Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover creamy tomato basil chicken pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop overnight.

Reheating Without Drying: The best way to reheat is in a skillet on the grill or stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and stir frequently until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the skillet method gives you better control over the consistency.

Freezing Tip: Cream-based pasta dishes can become grainy when frozen, so we don’t recommend freezing this dish. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta for this grilled recipe?
Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, fettuccine, or even spaghetti all work wonderfully. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions. Shorter pastas like penne and rigatoni are easier to eat and hold the creamy sauce well.

What’s the best grill temperature for this one-skillet meal?
Medium-high heat, around 400°F, is ideal for searing the chicken. Once you add the liquid and pasta, reduce the heat to medium-low (around 300-350°F) to gently simmer the pasta without burning the bottom.

Can I make this creamy tomato basil chicken pasta without a grill?
Yes! You can make this entirely on your stovetop using a large skillet or Dutch oven. Cook the chicken in the skillet until browned and cooked through, then slice or dice it. To get a similar smoky flavor, use smoked paprika and consider adding a drop of liquid smoke to the sauce.

How do I prevent the cream sauce from separating?
The key is to keep the heat low once you add the cream. Don’t let the sauce boil—just let it simmer gently. Also, make sure your Parmesan cheese is freshly grated, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly.

What can I serve with this creamy tomato basil chicken pasta?
This is a complete meal in one skillet! However, if you want to add extra sides, a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables all pair beautifully with the rich, creamy, smoky flavors of this dish.