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Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta (Copycat Recipe)

Close-up of Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta served with grilled chicken, fresh basil, and crumbled cheese

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This Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta is packed with fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, tender chicken, and a vibrant basil oil. A perfect comfort dish ready in under 45 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 6 boneless chicken breast cutlets
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon dried mustard
  • 3 cups grape tomatoes
  • 3 garlic cloves, whole
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
  • Sea salt to taste
  • 1½ cups reserved pasta water
  • 1 ball fresh mozzarella
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil (for basil oil)
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons sea salt

Instructions

  • 1. Marinate chicken with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, mustard, and salt. Rest for 10-15 minutes.
  • 2. Blend basil leaves, olive oil, garlic powder, and sea salt to make basil oil. Set aside.
  • 3. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1½ cups pasta water before draining.
  • 4. Sear marinated chicken in a skillet until cooked through. Rest and slice.
  • 5. In the same pan, sauté grape tomatoes in olive oil until skins burst. Add whole garlic, chili flakes, and salt.
  • 6. Stir in tomato paste and half the pasta water. Simmer covered for 5 minutes.
  • 7. Mash tomatoes slightly, add cooked pasta and remaining pasta water. Toss to coat.
  • 8. Top with sliced chicken, drizzle with basil oil, and garnish with torn mozzarella. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Use soft, ripe tomatoes for the best sauce texture.
  • Adjust chili flakes to your spice preference.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of water.

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