This Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a tasty mix of chicken, tomatoes, and pasta all tossed together. It’s fresh, colorful, and super quick to make!
Honestly, who can resist the smell of garlic and herbs? I love how this dish brings a taste of Italy right to my kitchen—perfect for a cozy night in! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used spaghetti, but angel hair is a great alternative if you prefer something thinner. You could even swap it for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to fit dietary needs.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best here. If you’re in a pinch, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut; just shred it and mix it in!
Tomatoes: Roma tomatoes are perfect for bruschetta. If you’re out of them, try vine-ripened or cherry tomatoes—they’ll also work well and taste delicious.
Basil: Fresh basil is a must for that classic flavor. If you can’t find fresh basil, a small amount of dried basil can be used in a pinch, although the taste will be different.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice touch. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, you can leave it out or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky, but following these steps will help you get juicy, tender pieces every time:
- Season the chicken well on both sides to enhance its flavor.
- Heat the olive oil in the skillet until it’s shimmering—not smoking. This ensures a nice sear.
- Place the chicken directly in the skillet and don’t rush flipping it! Let it cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, so it gets that lovely brown crust.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) internally to be fully cooked.
- Rest the chicken for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist!
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
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 ripe Roma tomatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, sliced into thin ribbons
- 1-2 tbsp balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
Time Estimate:
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti or angel hair pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is al dente. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, take your chicken breasts and season both sides with salt and pepper to taste. This step is important for adding flavor to the chicken!
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have a nice golden-brown color. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, and then slice it into strips.
4. Make the Bruschetta Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, sliced fresh basil, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to combine and let the flavors meld.
5. Combine the Pasta and Bruschetta:
Next, add the cooked pasta to the skillet (or a large mixing bowl). Toss the pasta with the bruschetta mixture until everything is well combined.
6. Assemble the Dish:
Now it’s time to plate your dish! Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the pasta. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor.
7. Serve:
Finally, garnish your dish with extra fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese if you like, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat. Serve warm and enjoy the fresh flavors!
This recipe is sure to please, balancing the juicy bruschetta flavors with tender chicken and pasta—all ready in just about 30 minutes! Enjoy your meal! 🍝
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses spaghetti or angel hair pasta, feel free to use any type of pasta you enjoy. Penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta are great alternatives!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to prevent sticking.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and toss in some grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also add beans for protein!
What Would Be a Good Serving Suggestion?
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A nice glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, compliments the flavors beautifully!
