This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and zesty basil. It’s like summer on a plate, making dinner feel extra special!
Every bite is bursting with flavor, and the best part? It’s super easy to whip up! I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—who can resist that? 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: While spaghetti or angel hair is fantastic, feel free to swap in other types like penne or fusilli. Just keep an eye on cooking times since they may vary!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well, but you can also use chicken thighs for added flavor and moisture. Alternatively, grilled tofu or chickpeas are great for a vegetarian option.
Cherry Tomatoes: Diced cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. If they’re out of season, you could use halved grape tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes. Just drain them well before use!
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil really brightens up the dish. If you don’t have any, you can try fresh parsley or even a pinch of dried basil in a pinch.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a tangy twist! You could replace it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, though the flavor may be a bit different.
Parmesan Cheese: For a dairy-free substitute, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor to the dish. But if cheese is your thing, grated Pecorino Romano is another tasty option!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is key. Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and tender:
- Always season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance the flavor.
- Use medium-high heat to brown the chicken nicely. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, but check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep it juicy!
How to Make Bruschetta Chicken Pasta?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or angel hair pasta
For The Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp olive oil
For The Sauce:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For Serving:
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes in total—15 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick yet satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add in your spaghetti or angel hair pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. When it’s ready, drain the pasta but be sure to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water on the side—this will help make your sauce nice and saucy!
2. Cook the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, let’s prepare the chicken. Season the chicken breasts with a sprinkle of salt and pepper on both sides. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are fully cooked and have a nice golden-brown color. Once done, take them out of the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once heated, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it smells amazing! Next, add the diced cherry tomatoes and balsamic vinegar. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften up.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, slice the rested chicken into thin strips. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato mixture and gently toss everything together. If it seems a bit dry, add in some of that reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency.
5. Final Touches:
Stir in the chopped basil and check if it needs more salt and pepper for flavor. Give it a taste and adjust as needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the pasta into bowls, topping each serving with sliced chicken. If you’d like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious Bruschetta Chicken Pasta!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or angel hair works great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta would be delicious alternatives. Make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar on hand, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as a substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly. For a sweeter touch, combine a tablespoon of red wine vinegar with a teaspoon of honey to mimic the sweetness of balsamic.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
