Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a fresh and flavorful dish inspired by classic Italian bruschetta. Combining grilled chicken, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil with tender penne pasta, it’s a perfect meal for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, red onion, garlic, and basil. Add balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine.
3. Step 3: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the cooked pasta with the tomato mixture. Heat through, stirring gently.
4. Step 4: Add the grilled, sliced chicken to the skillet and toss to combine.
5. Step 5: Serve the pasta in bowls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs before grilling.
• Substitute penne with fusilli or farfalle for a different pasta texture.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
• Use fresh mozzarella chunks in place of Parmesan for a creamy twist.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil to keep the pasta moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any short pasta like fusilli, farfalle, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to keep it hearty and satisfying.

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 90 reviews

• Author: Hugo
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A vibrant and flavorful Bruschetta Chicken Pasta that combines tender grilled chicken, fresh cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, and tangy balsamic vinegar tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta, finished with a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese for a delightful Italian-inspired meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled and sliced

Pasta

• 1 pound penne pasta

Bruschetta Mixture

• 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
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside.
2. Prepare the Bruschetta Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, and chopped fresh basil. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
3. Combine Pasta and Mixture: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked penne pasta followed by the prepared tomato and basil mixture. Stir gently to warm the ingredients through without breaking the tomatoes.
4. Add the Chicken: Incorporate the grilled and sliced chicken breasts into the skillet. Toss everything together to combine flavors evenly and heat the chicken through.
5. Serve: Dish the bruschetta chicken pasta into bowls and generously sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

• For best flavor, grill the chicken with a bit of seasoning before slicing.
• Use fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes for the most authentic taste.
• You can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
• Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should remain slightly firm for best texture.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: Bruschetta Chicken Pasta, Italian pasta recipe, grilled chicken pasta, cherry tomato pasta, easy weeknight dinner, penne pasta recipe