This Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a colorful dish packed with flavor! Juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and basil come together with pasta for a delightful meal.
I love how simple it is to whip up! Just cook the chicken, mix in the toppings, and pour it all over pasta. Dinner is ready in no time, and it tastes like a fancy restaurant dish! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using spaghetti or angel hair for this dish. Both provide a nice texture. If you’re looking for something gluten-free, feel free to swap in gluten-free pasta, or even spiralized zucchini for a veggie twist!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for quick cooking. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier flavor, or even grill chicken beforehand to save time.
Tomatoes: Fresh ripe tomatoes bring the best flavor to the bruschetta. If tomatoes are out of season, canned diced tomatoes can work in a pinch, but consider adding them during the last few minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that classic flavor. If you’re out, you could use parsley or even a bit of dried Italian seasoning, but fresh is always best when possible!
Balsamic Glaze: This adds a lovely sweetness. If you don’t have it, a splash of balsamic vinegar can substitute, though it won’t have that thick, sweet glaze texture.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but here’s how to make sure it’s juicy and tender!
- Heat your pan to medium before adding oil—this helps seal in juices.
- Season the chicken well with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check—165°F is your target!
- Don’t skip letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps it juicy when you slice it.
Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz spaghetti or angel hair pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3-4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or reduction
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for the tomato mixture)
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and chicken, and another 10-15 minutes mixing everything together. Quick and wholesome—perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti or angel hair pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and golden brown. When done, remove the chicken from the pan, let it rest for a few minutes, and then slice it into strips.
3. Make the Tomato Basil Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and fresh basil. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss everything gently to mix and set it aside.
4. Combine Pasta and Chicken:
Now, add the cooked pasta back into the pan where you cooked the chicken to soak up any remaining flavors. Toss it gently to warm everything through.
5. Serve the Dish:
To serve, plate the pasta first, then top with the sliced chicken. Spoon the tomato and basil mixture evenly over the chicken and pasta. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for that extra flavor boost, and feel free to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top if you’d like!
6. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and relish the fresh and vibrant flavors of your Bruschetta Chicken Pasta. It’s a delightful meal that brings together the best of summer flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti and angel hair work great for this dish, feel free to use any pasta you like, such as penne, fusilli, or even whole grain pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil instead, but reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon since dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, parsley can be used for a different flavor, though it won’t replicate the exact taste of basil.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also replace the chicken with chickpeas or a plant-based protein for added texture.
