Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Why Make This Recipe

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the fresh flavors of bruschetta with the comforting heartiness of pasta. It’s a perfect dinner choice that brings together grilled chicken, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil. This recipe is not only tasty but also quick to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or impressing guests at a casual dinner.

How to Make Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
1 pound penne pasta
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/3 cup olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add garlic and red onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften.
Stir in the grilled chicken slices, cooked pasta, and fresh basil.
Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, and season with salt and pepper.
Toss everything together until well combined.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

How to Serve Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Serve Bruschetta Chicken Pasta hot, directly from the skillet. It’s perfect on its own or with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. A little extra grated Parmesan on top adds a delicious finishing touch.

How to Store Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, cool the pasta completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for about 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Make sure to grill the chicken for extra flavor; marinating it beforehand can enhance the taste.
Feel free to use whole wheat penne for a healthier option.
Adjust the amount of balsamic vinegar to your liking, especially if you enjoy a tangier flavor.
Fresh basil is key for that bruschetta taste; try to use it instead of dried basil.

Variation

You can add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for more color and nutrition. Alternatively, swap the chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist on this dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like! Fusilli, rotini, or even spaghetti would work well.

2. Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients in advance. Just cook the pasta and store everything separately until you’re ready to combine and serve.

3. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can skip the chicken and add more vegetables or even chickpeas for protein.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and onion for a bit of heat.

5. Can I freeze Bruschetta Chicken Pasta?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it in an airtight container. Just remember that the texture may change slightly after thawing.