Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a tasty dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner. It’s filled with juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and basil, all mixed with pasta for a delightful meal.
It’s like a party in a bowl! I love how colorful it looks, and the flavors remind me of summer days. Serve it with a sprinkle of cheese on top, and you’re all set for a yummy feast!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using spaghetti for its classic shape, but feel free to swap with penne or fusilli. They catch the sauce nicely too!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for quick cooking. You can use thighs if you prefer more flavor, or even swap for grilled shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
Olive Oil: It’s used for cooking the chicken and in the bruschetta. If you’re out, you can sub with avocado oil or even butter for a rich taste.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy, perfect for bruschetta. If you can’t find them, diced regular tomatoes work. Just drain the excess liquid first.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds a lovely fresh flavor. If fresh isn’t available, dried basil can work in a pinch, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: I like the depth of flavor from grated Parmesan. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast is a great alternative for a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Cook the Chicken to Perfection?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but with the right steps, it can turn out delicious every time. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by seasoning your chicken well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This adds flavor from the beginning.
- Use medium-high heat and let the oil get hot before adding the chicken; this ensures a good sear.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes without moving the chicken too much. This allows a golden crust to form.
- Check the internal temperature; it should be 165°F (75°C). Letting it rest for a few minutes before slicing helps keep it juicy.
How to Make Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or pasta of your choice
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking chicken)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
For the Bruschetta Topping:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for bruschetta topping)
For Serving:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bruschetta Chicken Pasta takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping ingredients and cooking, plus some time to let the chicken rest. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add your spaghetti or pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente (cooked but still firm). When done, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, take the two chicken breasts and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Make sure to coat them well; this adds great flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are fully cooked and golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature is 165°F (75°C). When they’re done, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.
4. Make the Bruschetta Topping:
In a medium bowl, mix together the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, and the additional tablespoon of olive oil. Season this mixture with salt and pepper to taste and give it a good stir to combine all the flavors.
5. Assemble the Pasta:
In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the bruschetta topping mixture and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is evenly coated and looking delicious!
6. Serve:
To serve, plate the bruschetta pasta and top it with the sliced chicken breasts. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan and fresh basil if you like. For an extra kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top. Enjoy your lovely Italian-inspired meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is a classic choice, you can substitute it with any pasta you prefer, like penne, fusilli, or whole wheat pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra olive oil to keep the pasta moist, and warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add more veggies like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers. You can also incorporate chickpeas or white beans for added protein.
How Can I Adjust the Heat Level?
If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes to taste. For a milder version, you can skip them altogether or just sprinkle a pinch for flavor without much heat.
