This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a tasty mix of tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all tossed with pasta. It’s fresh, colorful, and perfect for a quick dinner!
Whenever I make this dish, it feels like summer on a plate! Plus, it’s so simple to whip up, you might save enough time for a little dance party in the kitchen. 💃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using spaghetti or angel hair as they both hold the sauce well. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta versions available at the store.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. You can substitute with turkey breasts or rotisserie chicken for a quicker option—just shred the already cooked chicken before adding it to the pasta.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its flavor. If you’re out, you can use vegetable oil or avocado oil, which are also good for cooking but may lack the distinctive taste.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are best used here, but if tomatoes aren’t in season, feel free to swap in a can of diced tomatoes. You can also add cherry tomatoes for a sweeter flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil brings so much flavor to this dish. If you can’t get fresh, dried basil works too—just use less than the fresh amount, as it’s more concentrated.
How Do You Ensure Your Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken properly is key for a juicy result. Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels before seasoning; this helps achieve a lovelier browning. Here’s how to cook them perfectly:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat—too hot and the chicken will burn.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet.
- Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer if available; the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken tender.
How to Make Bruschetta Chicken Pasta?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 12 ounces spaghetti or angel hair pasta
For The Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Tomato Mixture:
- 4 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
- Extra fresh basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 20 minutes cooking the chicken and the tomato mixture. A quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente (cooked but still firm), drain it and set it aside. This will be the base of your dish, so make sure it’s ready to go!
2. Preparing the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until they are fully cooked and golden brown. Once done, remove them from the skillet and let them rest on a plate.
3. Making the Tomato Mixture:
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Now, it’s time to add the diced tomatoes and minced garlic. Cook this mixture for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to soften. It’s going to smell amazing!
4. Adding Flavor:
Next, stir in the chopped basil and balsamic vinegar. Mix everything well and season with salt and pepper to taste. This adds a wonderful fresh flavor to your dish.
5. Slicing the Chicken:
Take your cooked chicken and slice it into strips. This will make it easy to serve on top of your pasta later.
6. Combining Everything:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the tomato mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the delicious tomato and basil flavors.
7. Serving the Dish:
Now it’s time to serve! Place the pasta in bowls and top it with the sliced chicken. If you like, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella cheese on top for extra flavor. Garnish with some extra fresh basil to make it look pretty.
8. Enjoy!
Your Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is ready! Serve it warm and enjoy this delightful meal. Bon appétit!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute the spaghetti or angel hair pasta with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or whole wheat pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose!
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and consider adding more vegetables for substance. You could stir in roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added flavor and nutrients. Adding chickpeas or white beans can also provide a protein boost!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the pasta and chicken ahead of time. Store each component separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pasta and chicken, then mix with the tomato mixture and serve!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of water or olive oil to keep the pasta from drying out. Heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
