This Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a tasty dish that combines juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and basil, all tossed with pasta. It’s like summer on a plate! 🍅
Making it is a breeze! Just cook the chicken, toss in those bright toppings, and mix it all with pasta. I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I prefer spaghetti or angel hair for this dish, but you can swap in other pasta types like penne or fusilli. Just keep cooking times in mind as they can vary.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that still gives good flavor!
Tomatoes: Fresh ripe tomatoes are best for that vibrant taste. If they aren’t in season, using canned diced tomatoes will work well too. Just drain them first.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a wonderful aroma and taste. If you can’t find fresh, you can substitute dried basil; use about one teaspoon. Fresh is usually better, though!
Balsamic Glaze: This adds a lovely sweetness. If you don’t have glaze, reduce balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until thick, or just use the vinegar directly for a tangy taste.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken correctly is essential for moist and tasty results. Here’s what to do:
- Start with even-sized chicken breasts; pound them gently if they’re thick.
- Season with salt and pepper before cooking for more flavor.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
- Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest off the heat for about 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices inside!
Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or angel hair pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for chicken)
Bruschetta Topping:
- 2-3 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or reduction
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for bruschetta)
Optional:
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 30 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes to cook everything. Easy and quick for a delightful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking your pasta as per the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 7-9 minutes depending on the type. Once cooked, drain it in a colander and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper on both sides. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it.
3. Make the Bruschetta Topping:
In a medium bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, fresh basil, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything gently to create a tasty bruschetta topping.
4. Combine Everything:
After mixing the bruschetta topping, return the skillet to the heat (wipe it out if needed) and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together with the bruschetta mixture until well combined and heated through.
5. Serve with Chicken:
Slice the rested chicken breasts and arrange them on top of the pasta. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the chicken and pasta for a burst of flavor.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you want, garnish with extra fresh basil and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta!
FAQ About Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti and angel hair work great, you can substitute with any pasta you have on hand, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
No problem! If you can’t find fresh basil, you can use dried basil instead. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil in place of the fresh. Add it to the tomato mixture for some tasty flavor but remember that fresh is always best!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent dryness.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more veggies instead. Consider sautéing bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms as a tasty alternative. You can also add chickpeas for protein!
