This Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta brings together tender chicken, fresh tomatoes, and basil for a delicious meal. The garlic and olive oil make it extra tasty!
It’s a crowd-pleaser, and let’s be honest, who can resist yummy pasta? I love to sprinkle on some cheese and serve it with a side salad for a perfect dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using spaghetti or angel hair for this dish. You can substitute with gluten-free pasta or whole grain pasta if preferred. Both options work well and maintain the wonderful flavors!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a convenient option. Shredded chicken works too for a different texture.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for cooking and drizzling for the best flavor. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil or canola oil are good substitutes, but they won’t have the same rich taste.
Tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes are key here! If out of fresh, canned diced tomatoes without added sugars can work, just drain them well. Cherry tomatoes can also be cut in half and used for a sweeter flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil enhances the taste beautifully. If you don’t have fresh, use dried basil, but keep in mind that dried herbs are usually stronger. Start with a smaller amount, and adjust to taste.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken perfectly is crucial to avoid dryness. Here’s how to make sure your chicken is juicy and flavorful:
- Start with even thickness by pounding the chicken breasts to about 1 inch thick for even cooking.
- Use high heat to sear the outside, and don’t move the chicken too much while it cooks. This helps to get a nice golden crust.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer. Once it reaches 165°F (74°C), it’s ready to come off the pan!
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This lets the juices settle, keeping the chicken 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 freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh diced tomatoes (about 3 medium tomatoes)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional for drizzling)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes total! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken and pasta, and another 10 minutes bringing everything together. It’s a quick meal that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti or angel hair pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare and Cook the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Carefully add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes:
With the chicken cooked, reduce the heat to medium in the same skillet. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and stir in the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until they start to soften up a bit.
4. Combine Everything:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic. Gently toss everything together to make sure the pasta gets coated with the flavorful mixture. Stir in the sliced fresh basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Plate Your Dish:
To finish, plate the pasta and neatly lay the sliced grilled chicken on top. If you’d like, drizzle a little balsamic vinegar over the chicken for an extra kick of flavor. Finally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your fresh bruschetta chicken pasta immediately. It’s a perfect meal for a busy weeknight or a dinner party that will impress your family and friends!
This light and flavorful dish is a delightful blend of juicy grilled chicken, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic basil, bringing a taste of summer right to your table.
FAQ for Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative that adds more fiber. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may take a minute or two longer than regular pasta.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil as a substitute. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use a little less and adjust to taste!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the garlic for a delicious twist!
