Description
This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta recipe combines the fresh, vibrant flavors of classic bruschetta with tender, seasoned chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. Featuring ripe tomatoes, garlic, basil, and a balsamic tang, this dish is a delightful fusion of Italian-inspired tastes in a simple, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
Bruschetta Topping
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Chicken
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Pasta and Garnishes
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the bruschetta topping: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss the mixture well and allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes so the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Be sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta, then set the pasta aside.
- Cook the chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a golden-brown crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly.
- Combine pasta and bruschetta: Return the skillet to medium heat and add the cooked pasta along with the reserved pasta water. Stir to loosen any browned bits and help the sauce bind. Next, add the bruschetta topping with all its juices and toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the fresh tomato mixture.
- Assemble the dish: Transfer the pasta mixture onto serving plates. Top each portion with the sliced chicken breast. Optionally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and drizzle some balsamic glaze for an added layer of flavor and presentation appeal.
- Serve: Garnish the dish with extra fresh basil leaves if desired and serve immediately to enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors at their best.
Notes
- Allowing the bruschetta topping to marinate enhances the flavor depth and melds the ingredients perfectly.
- Reserving pasta water is key to helping the sauce cling to the pasta for better texture and taste.
- Resting the chicken after cooking keeps it juicy and easy to slice.
- Use fresh basil and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor experience.
- Parmesan cheese and balsamic glaze are optional but highly recommended to complement the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
