This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a great way to enjoy flavors of Italy! It features juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and a hint of basil all tossed with your favorite pasta. Yum!
I love how colorful this dish is. It looks fancy, but it’s super easy to make. Plus, my family always goes back for seconds. Who can resist that cheesy goodness?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish since they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you want a shortcut, rotisserie chicken is a great swap—just shred it and toss it in!
Olive Oil: You can use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. If you’re out, avocado oil or even canola oil works fine, too. I find olive oil brings a lovely richness to the dish.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add freshness and sweetness. If these aren’t available, you can use regular tomatoes, but remove the seeds and chop them small. In a pinch, canned diced tomatoes can work as well, though fresh is best.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that classic bruschetta taste. If you can’t find it, chopped fresh parsley will do in a pinch; just know that the flavor won’t be quite the same.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a great finish to this dish. For a lactose-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy!
How Do You Cook Chicken Breasts Perfectly?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken breasts can be tricky. Here are my best tips to ensure they come out tender and juicy:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps it get a nice, golden-brown crust!
- Use medium heat to cook them slowly. If the heat is too high, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist when you slice.
By following these tips, you’ll have delicious Bruschetta Chicken Pasta that impresses everyone at the table! Enjoy!
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (divided)
For the Bruschetta Topping:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional for extra flavor)
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or bowtie)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
For Serving:
- Optional: toasted garlic bread slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes preparing the chicken and pasta, plus another 15 minutes cooking and plating. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to package instructions, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to bring out the flavors.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. After cooking, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them into strips.
4. Make the Bruschetta Topping:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in half of the minced garlic and sauté for around 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the quartered cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, letting them soften a bit. Stir in the chopped basil and, if you want that extra kick, drizzle the balsamic vinegar. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Pasta and Bruschetta Topping:
Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss everything together to combine well and heat through. Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt slightly into the pasta.
6. Serve:
To serve, plate the pasta and top it with the sliced chicken breast. Spoon some of the bruschetta topping over the chicken for a beautiful finish. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
7. Enjoy Your Meal!
For an extra treat, serve with slices of toasted garlic bread on the side. Dig in and enjoy your vibrant, fresh Bruschetta Chicken Pasta!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you prefer—penne, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta will work perfectly. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or a little water to keep the pasta from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also toss in some chickpeas for protein. The bruschetta topping will still provide plenty of flavor!
What Should I Serve With Bruschetta Chicken Pasta?
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables. Don’t forget the toasted garlic bread for a delightful, complete meal!
