Bruschetta Chicken Pasta combines the fresh, vibrant flavors of classic bruschetta with tender chicken and al dente pasta. It's a delightful dish that brings together juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and garlic, all tossed with pasta and topped with seasoned chicken. This meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or when I want to impress guests with minimal effort.
Why I Love This Recipe
I find this recipe appealing for several reasons:
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Fresh Ingredients: The use of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and color.
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Quick and Easy: I can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
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Versatile: It's easy to customize with different types of pasta or additional vegetables.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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Italian seasoning
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Garlic powder
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Salt and black pepper
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Olive oil
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Angel hair pasta (or pasta of choice)
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Roma tomatoes, diced
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Fresh basil leaves, chopped
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Garlic cloves, minced
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Balsamic vinegar
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Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
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Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Directions
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Prepare the Chicken: I season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
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Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, I heat olive oil and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Once done, I remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing it into thin strips.
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Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. After draining, I return the pasta to the pot and toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Prepare the Bruschetta Topping: In a bowl, I combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, and a drizzle of olive oil. I season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
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Assemble the Dish: I add the bruschetta mixture to the pasta, tossing everything together until well combined.
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Serve: I plate the pasta and top it with sliced chicken. For added flavor, I sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. The preparation time is about 10 minutes, and the cooking time is around 20 minutes, totaling approximately 30 minutes from start to finish.
Variations
I enjoy experimenting with this recipe by:
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Using Different Proteins: Sometimes, I substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp or keep it vegetarian by omitting the meat altogether.
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Adding Vegetables: Incorporating sautéed spinach or zucchini adds more nutrients and flavor.
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Choosing Whole Wheat Pasta: For a healthier option, I opt for whole wheat pasta, which provides more fiber.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to prevent it from drying out. I avoid using the microwave, as it can make the chicken rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
While fresh tomatoes provide the best flavor, I can use canned diced tomatoes in a pinch. I make sure to drain them well before using.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, I use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients, including seasonings, are certified gluten-free.
Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes, by omitting the Parmesan cheese or using a dairy-free alternative, I can make this dish dairy-free.
Can I prepare the bruschetta topping ahead of time?
Absolutely. Preparing the bruschetta topping a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. I store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
What can I serve alongside this pasta?
A light green salad and crusty garlic bread complement this dish well, making for a complete and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a delightful fusion of classic Italian flavors and hearty pasta. Its simplicity, combined with fresh ingredients, makes it a go-to recipe in my kitchen. Whether I'm cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish always impresses and satisfies.
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta blends the fresh, vibrant flavors of classic Italian bruschetta with juicy chicken and al dente pasta. Featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a touch of balsamic vinegar, this easy 30-minute meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 8 oz angel hair pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 4 Roma tomatoes, diced
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Cook Chicken: In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sear chicken 6–7 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.
- Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Make Bruschetta Topping: In a bowl, mix diced tomatoes, garlic, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Pasta & Topping: Toss the bruschetta mixture with the cooked pasta until evenly coated.
- Assemble Dish: Plate the pasta, top with sliced chicken, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
- Serve Warm.
Notes
- Swap chicken with shrimp or keep it vegetarian by omitting meat.
- Add sautéed spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for more veggies.
- Use gluten-free or whole wheat pasta as needed.
- Bruschetta topping can be made in advance and chilled.
- Best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored and gently reheated.
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