Description

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a delightful Italian-American dish combining tender sautéed chicken, fresh cherry tomatoes, garlic, and basil tossed with perfectly cooked penne or spaghetti pasta. This easy stovetop recipe features a tangy balsamic vinegar reduction and is finished with grated Parmesan cheese, making it a flavorful and satisfying main course perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

Ingredients

Protein and Seasoning

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Pasta

8 oz penne or spaghetti pasta

Vegetables and Flavorings

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Additional salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Prepare the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside for later use.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken pieces, along with Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Sauté the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes until it is fully cooked and lightly browned on the outside.
Add Tomatoes and Garlic: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic into the skillet with the chicken. Cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
Simmer with Balsamic Vinegar: Pour in the balsamic vinegar and let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the vinegar has reduced slightly, intensifying the flavor of the dish.
Combine Pasta and Toppings: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure the chicken, tomatoes, and pasta are evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
Finish with Basil and Parmesan: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning by adding additional salt and pepper if desired.
Serve: Serve the Bruschetta Chicken Pasta warm, garnished with extra fresh basil or Parmesan cheese if preferred.

Notes

For a lower-carb alternative, substitute traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Grilling the chicken instead of pan-searing adds a smoky depth of flavor to the dish.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Fresh basil is critical to authentic flavor, but you can substitute with dried basil if needed, using about 1 tablespoon.