Perfect Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the perfect combination of bright, fresh ingredients and savory goodness. The grilled chicken provides a protein-packed base, while the bruschetta-inspired topping of tomatoes, basil, and garlic adds vibrant flavors that pop with every bite. The balsamic vinegar gives it a tangy edge, and the Parmesan cheese adds that essential salty, creamy finish. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste in under 30 minutes, making it an easy yet impressive meal.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
• 1 pound penne pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water for later use.
2. Grill the chicken: While the pasta is cooking, grill the chicken breasts over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and slice it into thin strips.
3. Prepare the bruschetta topping: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, minced garlic, and fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, and toss everything together gently to combine.
4. Combine the pasta and chicken: Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the bruschetta topping, and toss to coat the pasta evenly in the tomato and basil mixture. Add the sliced grilled chicken and mix gently.
5. Finish with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, tossing again to combine. If the pasta seems dry, you can add a bit of reserved pasta water or extra olive oil to reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh basil or more grated Parmesan if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian option: Omit the grilled chicken and add more veggies, like zucchini, bell peppers, or olives, for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Cheese options: Swap the Parmesan for mozzarella or ricotta for a creamier texture or a different flavor profile.
• Add some heat: If you like a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes to the bruschetta topping for a subtle kick.
• Different pasta: Swap penne with any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, fusilli, or rigatoni.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for convenience. Just make sure to warm it through before adding it to the pasta.

2. Can I make the bruschetta topping ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bruschetta topping a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Just wait to toss it with the pasta and chicken until you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I substitute balsamic vinegar with another type of vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but balsamic adds a unique sweet and tangy flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the penne with your favorite pasta shape, like spaghetti, farfalle, or fettuccine.

5. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta in place of regular penne. The rest of the recipe remains the same.

6. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by omitting the Parmesan cheese or using a dairy-free cheese alternative.

7. Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! This recipe is very versatile, so you can add vegetables like spinach, roasted red peppers, or even grilled zucchini to enhance the flavor and add more nutrients.

8. How do I make the chicken more flavorful?

Marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before grilling to infuse more flavor.

9. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While fresh basil works best for this recipe, you can use dried basil in a pinch. Just use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil in place of the 1/4 cup of fresh basil.

10. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the bruschetta mixture, or drizzle with hot sauce just before serving.

Conclusion

Perfect bruschetta chicken pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together fresh, vibrant ingredients with a savory twist. The grilled chicken adds a satisfying protein, while the tangy tomato and basil mixture delivers a burst of flavor. This meal is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re feeding the family, hosting friends, or enjoying a solo dinner. With easy-to-find ingredients and minimal preparation time, this recipe guarantees a delicious meal that will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation.

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