Mediterranean Chicken & Tomato Penne

If you’re craving a dinner that feels fresh, vibrant, and deeply satisfying without being heavy, this Mediterranean Chicken & Tomato Penne is exactly what your table needs. Packed with juicy seared chicken, sweet blistered cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and fresh basil tossed with perfectly cooked penne, this dish captures the sunny spirit of Mediterranean cooking in every bite.

This easy Mediterranean chicken pasta is ideal for busy weeknights, relaxed weekend dinners, or even casual entertaining. It’s colorful, wholesome, and full of bold yet balanced flavors. Best of all, it comes together in under an hour using simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make this flavorful chicken penne recipe perfectly every time.

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Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Chicken Pasta

There are countless pasta recipes out there, but this one stands out for several reasons:

• Bright, fresh flavors from tomatoes, basil, and olive oil
• Lean protein from tender chicken breast
• Simple ingredients that are easy to find
• Quick cooking time, perfect for weeknight meals
• Balanced and wholesome, without heavy cream or excess butter

Mediterranean cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh produce, healthy fats, and simple seasonings. This tomato basil penne embodies those principles beautifully.

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The Mediterranean Flavor Profile

What makes this dish truly Mediterranean? It’s all about:

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Fresh garlic
• Sun-ripened tomatoes
• Fresh herbs like basil and oregano
• Light cheese accents rather than heavy sauces

Instead of relying on cream, the sauce in this healthy tomato pasta is built from sautéed tomatoes that break down into a naturally sweet, rich base. The olive oil enhances everything while keeping the dish light.

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Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make Mediterranean Chicken & Tomato Penne:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced (optional but recommended)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Extra basil and Parmesan for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and half of the dried oregano.

3. Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.

4. Build the Tomato Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add cherry tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the cherry tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.

5. Add Seasoning and Broth

Stir in the remaining oregano and red pepper flakes. Pour in the chicken broth and let simmer for 3–4 minutes to create a light sauce.

6. Combine Pasta and Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained penne and toss everything together. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

7. Finish with Cheese and Herbs

Remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan and fresh basil. Toss until evenly combined.

8. Serve

Garnish with extra basil, more Parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately while warm.

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Tips for Perfect Mediterranean Chicken Penne

Use High-Quality Olive Oil

Since olive oil is a key flavor component, choose a good extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken

Overcooked chicken becomes dry. Sear until just cooked through and remove promptly.

Salt the Pasta Water Well

This is your only chance to season the pasta itself.

Reserve Pasta Water

The starch helps create a silky sauce that clings to the penne.

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Delicious Variations

Add Spinach

Stir in a handful of fresh spinach at the end for added nutrients and color.

Make It Creamy

Add 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or a splash of light cream for a creamier texture while still keeping Mediterranean flavors intact.

Try Feta Instead

Swap Parmesan for crumbled feta for a more Greek-inspired twist.

Add Olives

Kalamata olives add briny depth and authenticity.

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Serving Suggestions

This easy Mediterranean dinner pairs beautifully with:

• A crisp cucumber and tomato salad
• Warm pita or crusty artisan bread
• Grilled zucchini or roasted eggplant
• Sparkling water with lemon

For entertaining, serve family-style in a large shallow bowl with fresh herbs scattered on top.

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Is This Dish Healthy?

Yes! This healthy tomato pasta includes:

• Lean protein from chicken
• Healthy fats from olive oil
• Antioxidants from tomatoes
• Fresh herbs for added nutrients

It’s lighter than cream-based pasta dishes and fits well into balanced eating patterns.

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Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat:

• Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water
• Or microwave in short intervals, stirring between

Avoid overheating to prevent dry chicken.

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Fun Mediterranean Food Fact

Mediterranean cuisine isn’t a single cuisine — it reflects flavors from Italy, Greece, Spain, and southern France. The emphasis on olive oil, tomatoes, and fresh herbs is shared across these regions, making dishes like this chicken penne recipe universally loved.

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Final Thoughts

Mediterranean Chicken & Tomato Penne is the kind of recipe that becomes a repeat favorite. It’s vibrant yet comforting, simple yet impressive, and healthy yet deeply satisfying.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this Mediterranean chicken pasta brings color, flavor, and warmth to the table every time.