Description
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a delightful Italian-inspired dish featuring tender pan-seared chicken breasts served over perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a fresh, flavorful bruschetta topping of ripe tomatoes, garlic, basil, and balsamic vinegar. Finished with optional Parmesan cheese and balsamic glaze, this recipe combines classic bruschetta flavors with hearty pasta and protein for a satisfying, easy-to-make meal perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
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
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta
Optional Garnishes
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the bruschetta topping: In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss well and let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta and setting it 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 and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a golden-brown crust. Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Combine the pasta and bruschetta: Using the same skillet, add the cooked pasta back in along with the reserved pasta water. Stir in the bruschetta topping, including its juices, and toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the fresh tomato mixture.
- Assemble the dish: Plate the tomato-coated pasta and top each serving with sliced chicken. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired and drizzle with balsamic glaze to enhance the flavor.
- Serve: Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and serve immediately for the best freshness and taste.
Notes
- Letting the bruschetta topping sit for at least 15 minutes enhances the flavors, but it can be made ahead and chilled overnight for convenience.
- Reserve some pasta water to loosen the pasta and help the bruschetta mixture coat it nicely without drying out.
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor impact.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper, based on the saltiness of added ingredients like Parmesan cheese.
- The dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for different occasions.