Easy Tomato Basil Pasta With Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Fresh boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for grilling. If you need a quicker option, precooked grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken will work too! Just heat it up before serving.

Balsamic Vinegar: This brings a tangy sweetness to the chicken. If you don’t have any, try apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar, but the flavor might be a bit different.

Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini for its ability to hold sauce well, but you can swap it for penne, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.

Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh, sweet cherry tomatoes make this pasta shine. You can substitute with diced regular tomatoes if that’s what you have, but you might consider adding them later in the cooking process to avoid mushiness.

Fresh Basil: Basil adds a lovely aroma and taste. If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil, but remember to use only 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

How Do You Get Juicy Grilled Chicken?

Getting perfectly grilled chicken is all about marinating and cooking it just right. Marinating not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken moist. Here’s how to do it properly:

• Start with a good marinade: balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. This gives the chicken flavor while tenderizing it.
• Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but 1-2 hours in the fridge is even better!
• Grill on medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side, but don’t press down on the chicken while grilling; that releases its juices.
• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This keeps it juicy when you slice it.

With these tips, your grilled chicken will turn out tender and flavorful every time!

Easy Tomato Basil Pasta With Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Grilled Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus whole leaves for garnish)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a hint of heat

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful dish will take you about 15-20 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. The actual cooking time is around 20 minutes, making it a quick meal that you can whip up in about an hour!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

In a bowl or zip-top bag, mix together the balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and make sure they’re well coated in the marinade. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for better flavor.

2. Cook the Pasta:

While the chicken marinates, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta, but remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.

3. Grill the Chicken:

Heat a grill pan or your outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill it for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s fully cooked and has nice grill marks. Once done, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice it into strips.

4. Prepare the Tomato Basil Pasta:

In a large skillet or bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped basil, and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the mixture is just right for your taste. Season with salt and black pepper to make it pop.

5. Assemble the Dish:

Now it’s time to serve! Divide the tomato basil pasta among plates or keep it in the skillet if serving family-style. Place the sliced balsamic grilled chicken on top, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with whole basil leaves for that extra touch.

6. Serve Immediately:

Dig in and enjoy your fresh and flavorful pasta dish paired with juicy grilled chicken! Perfect for sharing with family or friends—or just treating yourself!

This delightful dish highlights fresh ingredients like ripe tomatoes and basil alongside the tangy balsamic flavor of grilled chicken, making it a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

FAQ for Easy Tomato Basil Pasta With Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini works great, you can substitute it with any short pasta like penne, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type you choose!

Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?

Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will enhance its flavor. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated and use it within 24 hours for the best results.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out.

Can I Add Other Vegetables?

Definitely! This recipe is versatile; feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just sauté them briefly with the pasta for a delicious twist!