Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it's perfectly al dente.

Once done, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside for later.

Season the boneless skinless chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper on both sides. Now, it's time to cook the chicken. You can choose between two methods:

Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F and air fry the chicken breasts for about 10-14 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

Skillet: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side until they're golden brown and fully cooked. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F using a meat thermometer. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin, bite-sized pieces.

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, sautéing them for about 1-2 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.

Next, lower the heat to medium and stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and a hint of sugar. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Return the cooked penne pasta to the pot it was boiled in. Pour the prepared tomato basil sauce over the pasta and add the chopped fresh basil leaves. Give everything a good stir until the pasta is evenly coated in the flavorful sauce.

Just before serving, toss the fresh mounceszarella pearls into the pasta and sauce mixture. Gently fold them in, allowing the warmth of the pasta to soften the cheese slightly and create creamy pockets of deliciousness throughout.

Divide the saucy pasta evenly among four serving bowls. Arrange the sliced chicken breast pieces on top of each bowl.

Drizzle a spoonful of basil pesto over the chicken and pasta for an extra burst of flavor. For the finishing touch, sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan cheese over each bowl.

Your homemade Cheesecake Factory-inspired Tomato Basil Pasta is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it piping hot and savor the wonderful combination of tender pasta, savory chicken, and flavorful tomato basil sauce. Each bite is sure to transport you to pasta paradise! Buon appetito!