1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, ensure you fully thaw it before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.

2. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and prepare the tomato mixture ahead of time. Just combine everything when you’re ready to eat.

3. Is this dish gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check the labels for any cross-contamination.

4. Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of pasta you enjoy, including spaghetti, fusilli, or penne.

5. How can I make this dish a little spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sautéed garlic and tomatoes for a little kick. You can also use a spicier kind of chicken seasoning when cooking.

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Description

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a fresh, vibrant dish that combines juicy seared chicken, sweet cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a tangy balsamic glaze tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner that’s both hearty and light.

Ingredients

Scale

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, etc.)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Crushed red pepper (optional)
Bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini (optional)
Feta or mozzarella cheese (optional)
Pine nuts or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken for 5–7 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Remove and let rest before slicing.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until tomatoes begin to soften.
Add balsamic vinegar and stir. Let it simmer for 2 minutes until slightly reduced.
Return sliced chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
Add cooked pasta and fresh basil to the pan. Toss everything together to combine.
Season with additional salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper if desired. Stir in optional vegetables or cheese at this point if using.
Serve warm, garnished with more basil, cheese, or nuts if desired.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for a faster version.
Try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta depending on your dietary needs.
The balsamic vinegar can be reduced longer for a more intense glaze.
Great served warm or cold as a pasta salad-style meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéed
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 520
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 370mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: bruschetta chicken pasta, balsamic chicken pasta, cherry tomato pasta, easy chicken dinner, weeknight meal