Description
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful Italian-inspired dish combining juicy chicken breasts seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs, tender pasta, and a fresh, zesty bruschetta topping made from ripe tomatoes, garlic, and basil. Finished with Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this recipe offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes, perfect for a satisfying family meal in about 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
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 & Garnish
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
- Additional fresh basil, for garnish
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 the mixture sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and develop.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set 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 breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a golden brown crust. Remove from the skillet and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Combine the pasta and bruschetta: In the same skillet, add the cooked pasta along with the reserved pasta water. Stir in the prepared bruschetta topping, including its juices, and toss well until the pasta is evenly coated with the fresh tomato mixture.
- Assemble the dish: Plate the bruschetta pasta mixture and top with sliced chicken breasts. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if using, and drizzle with balsamic glaze for an added burst of flavor.
- Serve: Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and serve immediately to enjoy the fresh and savory flavors at their best.
Notes
- Allowing the bruschetta topping to sit enhances the flavor by letting the ingredients meld.
- Reserving pasta water helps to loosen the sauce and bind it beautifully to the pasta.
- The balsamic glaze is optional but adds a lovely sweet and tangy finish.
- You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs if preferred.
- For a milder garlic flavor, reduce fresh garlic and balance with extra herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
