Description
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta combines the bright, fresh flavors of classic Italian bruschetta with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. Tossed in olive oil, balsamic, garlic, and basil, this easy 30-minute dish is both refreshing and satisfying—perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cherry or Roma tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 12 oz spaghetti, penne, or your favorite pasta
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella pearls or slices (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove and let rest before slicing into strips.
- In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and red pepper flakes. Toss and let marinate for 5–10 minutes.
- In the same skillet, add the cooked pasta with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss in the tomato mixture and sliced chicken, combining gently until evenly coated.
- Divide into bowls and top with grated Parmesan, mozzarella pearls, and extra basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use grilled chicken for extra smoky flavor.
- For a creamy version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese.
- Can be served warm or chilled as a pasta salad.
- Fresh tomatoes and basil give the best flavor—avoid overcooking them.
- Store leftovers up to 3 days and reheat gently with a drizzle of olive oil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
