Description
This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta combines tender sautéed chicken, fresh tomato and basil bruschetta flavors, and al dente pasta tossed in a light balsamic and garlic dressing. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a delicious, colorful, and satisfying Italian-inspired weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta & Chicken
- 8 oz pasta (penne or spaghetti works well)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Bruschetta Mixture
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency later.
- Sauté chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 7-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare bruschetta mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the diced cherry tomatoes, fresh chopped basil, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir gently to meld the flavors.
- Combine and toss: Add the cooked pasta back into the same skillet used for the chicken, then add the cooked chicken, bruschetta mixture, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss all ingredients together over medium heat until evenly combined and warmed through. If the mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves. Serve warm immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Saving some pasta water helps adjust the sauce consistency and keeps the dish moist.
- You can substitute chicken thighs if preferred for juicier meat.
- Fresh basil garnish adds a bright, herbal note and appealing presentation.
- This dish can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
