This Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a burst of fresh flavors! With juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic basil, it’s like a summer party on your plate. Who doesn’t love a good pasta dish?
Cooking this dish is a breeze! Just toss everything together, and you’ll have a tasty dinner in no time. I enjoy adding a sprinkle of cheese on top for that extra yum factor! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using spaghetti or angel hair for a light texture that pairs beautifully with the toppings. If you’re gluten-free, feel free to swap in gluten-free pasta; just be mindful of the cooking time.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly. For a quicker option, consider using rotisserie chicken, shredded, for that same delicious flavor.
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are a must for that bright flavor. If you can’t find them in season, canned diced tomatoes work fine, but try to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely aroma! If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil can be substituted, but use less since it’s more concentrated. I personally adore throwing in some parsley for a fresh twist!
Cheese: Grated Parmesan is a fantastic topping, adding a nice salty flavor. You could switch it up with mozzarella or even feta for a different cheese experience!
How Do You Cook Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken so it’s perfectly tender and juicy can be tricky, but here are my tips:
- Start with chicken at room temperature—let it sit out for about 15-20 minutes before cooking.
- Season it well with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Cook on medium-high heat to get a nice sear without drying it out.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F internally.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing, this helps keep juices locked in.
Taking these simple steps will give you juicy, flavorful chicken for your pasta dish every time!
Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz spaghetti or angel hair pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 15 minutes cooking and prepping the ingredients, then another 10-15 minutes mixing everything together. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti or angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place the chicken into the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side. You want it to be golden brown and cooked through, with no pink in the middle. When it’s finished, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
3. Prepare the Bruschetta Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, fresh basil, the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, and balsamic vinegar (or glaze). Add salt and pepper to taste, then stir everything together to make a fresh bruschetta topping.
4. Combine the Pasta and Bruschetta:
Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet (or a large mixing bowl). Pour the bruschetta mixture over the pasta and toss gently to combine. Make sure the pasta is well coated with the tasty toppings!
5. Serve with Chicken:
Arrange the sliced grilled chicken on top of the pasta. If you like, drizzle a bit of extra balsamic glaze over everything for added flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top if you’re using it!
6. Enjoy Your Meal:
Now, all that’s left to do is serve up your beautiful Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta! Enjoy it warm and savor the delicious fresh flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option if you’re looking for added fiber and a nutty flavor. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly from traditional pasta.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can omit the chicken and substitute it with grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Tofu or chickpeas are also great protein alternatives to make it heartier!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you reheat, add a splash of olive oil or water to keep the pasta moist and prevent it from drying out.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the bruschetta mixture and cooked chicken separately for up to 2 months. Just defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating and combining with freshly cooked pasta!
