How to Cook Perfect Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe
This Perfect Bruschetta Chicken Pasta recipe combines the fresh, vibrant flavors of classic bruschetta with tender grilled chicken and al dente penne pasta. It’s a wholesome, colorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual entertaining.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Boiling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
Pasta
- 1 pound penne pasta
Vegetables & Herbs
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Dressing & Seasoning
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Prepare the Tomato Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, and chopped fresh basil. Add the balsamic vinegar and olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together gently until well mixed.
- Combine Pasta and Tomato Mixture: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the cooked pasta along with the tomato mixture. Stir gently to warm the components evenly, allowing the flavors to meld without breaking the tomatoes.
- Add Grilled Chicken: Incorporate the grilled and sliced chicken breasts into the skillet with the pasta and tomato mixture. Toss everything together carefully to combine all ingredients and heat the chicken through.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta mixture in serving bowls and generously sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For best results, grill the chicken breasts with simple seasoning such as salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil before slicing.
- You can substitute penne pasta with any other short pasta like rigatoni or fusilli if preferred.
- Fresh basil is essential for authentic flavor; avoid dried basil for this dish.
- Adjust balsamic vinegar quantity based on your taste preference for tanginess.
- Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat if desired.
- Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/4 of the recipe)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: bruschetta chicken pasta, Italian chicken pasta, grilled chicken pasta, penne bruschetta recipe, easy pasta dinner
