This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a bright and tasty dish that brings together juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and basil over pasta. It’s like a little Italian feast on your plate!
Making this dish is a breeze! I love how it combines flavors and colors, making it a hit at dinner. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy pasta? It always feels like a warm hug! 🍝❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: I like using thin pasta like spaghetti, but you can easily switch to penne or linguine if that’s what you have at home. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for this recipe, but you can use thighs for more flavor, or even cooked rotisserie chicken to save time!
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes provide sweetness, but if they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can work too—just drain them before adding.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds a fresh punch. If you don’t have it, try substituting it with fresh parsley or even spinach. Just chop finely!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is the best for flavor. If you’re dairy-free, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the milk proteins.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
The chicken is key in this recipe. To cook it perfectly, start by seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Here’s how I do it:
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and don’t move them around too much; let them get a nice golden color, about 5-6 minutes per side.
- Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F in the thickest part!
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz spaghetti or thin pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking chicken)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, sliced thinly
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for pasta and sauce)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bruschetta Chicken Pasta will take about 30 minutes to prepare. It includes about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. A quick and satisfying meal for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti or thin pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. After it’s cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and fully cooked in the middle. Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, and then slice it into strips.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. If there’s not enough oil left, add a splash more. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt. Then, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. If you like a little heat, stir in the red pepper flakes at this point!
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Lower the heat and add your cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss everything to combine. Add the fresh basil, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Gently mix until everything is well combined and the cheese starts to melt.
5. Plate the Dish:
To serve, place the pasta on a plate or in a bowl, topped with the sliced chicken breasts. You can sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil on top for a beautiful finish.
6. Enjoy!
Dig in while it’s warm and savor the delicious flavors of this fresh and tasty Bruschetta Chicken Pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is perfect for this dish, you can substitute it with any pasta you have on hand, like penne, linguine, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
How Do I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace it with a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition!
What Should I Do with Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of olive oil or water in a skillet over low heat to prevent it from drying out, and stir until warmed through.
How Can I Enhance the Flavor?
If you’re looking to boost flavors, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the tomato mixture for a tangy twist. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as oregano or thyme, to give it your own personal touch!
