Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It combines tender grilled chicken, fresh cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil with hearty penne pasta tossed in a delicious balsamic vinaigrette. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but is also highly customizable, making every meal an opportunity for creativity.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 500
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 550mg
Why Make Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The juicy grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes and the freshness of basil, creating a well-rounded dish that is both satisfying and healthy. Loaded with protein and fresh ingredients, it’s a meal you can feel good about. Plus, this recipe is versatile—you can easily swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
How to Make Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Step by Step
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
Directions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red onion, and sauté until translucent.
- Add the grilled chicken slices and cherry tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Pour in balsamic vinegar and cook for about 2-3 minutes.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the chicken and tomato mixture.
- Stir in fresh basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
How to Serve Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is fantastic on its own, but it can also be paired with a crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Additionally, consider serving it alongside garlic bread to soak up the delicious juices. A glass of chilled white wine complements the dish beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the balsamic and fresh ingredients.
How to Store Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
To store leftovers, place your Bruschetta Chicken Pasta in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, simply add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to rehydrate the pasta. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in an airtight container for up to two months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Expert Tips for Cooking Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in balsamic vinegar before grilling.
- Substitute whole wheat penne for a healthier option packed with fiber.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a twist on flavor.
- Add some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Fresh basil is key, but you can also use parsley or arugula as alternatives.
Delicious Variations of Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
- For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet.
- Try adding a citrus twist with lemon zest and juice to brighten the flavors.
- Make it vegetarian by substituting the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or hearty vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a dish bursting with flavor, ease, and versatility. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it to guests, it’s sure to impress. Try it out today and discover how deliciously simple dinner can be!
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red onion, and sauté until translucent.
- Add the grilled chicken slices and cherry tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Pour in balsamic vinegar and cook for about 2-3 minutes.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the chicken and tomato mixture.
- Stir in fresh basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
