Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Delicious Dinner

Posted on

bruschetta chicken, pasta recipes, Italian chicken pasta, easy weeknight dinner, fresh tomato pasta, summer pasta, one-pot pasta recipes

This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta brings together juicy chicken and fresh tomatoes for a delightful meal! With basil and a hint of garlic, it’s bursting with flavor and color.

Honestly, it feels like a party on your plate! I love tossing in some mozzarella for a cheesy touch. It’s quick to whip up, so perfect for those busy weeknights!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: Spaghetti is my go-to for this dish! It holds the sauce well. However, feel free to use any pasta you like—penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat variants work wonderfully too.

Chicken: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean protein content. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option or even use tofu for a vegetarian twist!

Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add a lovely texture, but canned tomatoes are super convenient! Fire-roasted canned tomatoes can add a nice smoky flavor. If you like a bit of spice, diced tomatoes with green chilies are great too.

Basil: Fresh basil makes a big difference in flavor. If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, dried basil works in a pinch. Just use half the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Parmesan Cheese: I love adding Parmesan cheese for richness. If you’re dairy-free, consider using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How Do You Ensure the Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?

Getting chicken right can be tricky! Follow these steps and tips to make sure it’s juicy and fully cooked:

  • While cooking, make sure the skillet is hot enough to get a good sear on the chicken.
  • Cut the chicken into even slices so they cook at the same rate.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F (75°C).
  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices in!

How to Make Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

  • 12 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
  • 2 cups tomatoes, diced (fresh or canned)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10-12 minutes cooking the pasta and chicken, and an additional 10-15 minutes combining everything together. A quick and delicious meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the spaghetti or pasta of your choice. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Carefully add the sliced chicken breasts to the skillet. Season the chicken with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes:

In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until you can smell its wonderful aroma. Then, add the diced tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and half of the chopped basil to the skillet. Let everything cook together for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes are heated through.

4. Combine Everything:

Next, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix it in with the tomatoes and garlic. Then, add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together until it’s well combined. Taste your pasta and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Your Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is ready! Serve it hot on plates or in bowls, garnished with the remaining fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if you like. Enjoy your flavorful meal!


## FAQ Section for Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Fresh?

Absolutely! Canned diced tomatoes work great and can save you some prep time. Just drain them slightly before adding to the skillet to avoid excess liquid in your dish.

What Pasta Can I Use as a Substitute?

You can use any pasta shape you prefer! Penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta will all work well. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check the package instructions.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while it warms through.

Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the garlic for a few minutes before adding the tomatoes.

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment