Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta combines the freshness of a classic bruschetta topping with tender chicken and pasta, creating a dish that’s light yet hearty. The juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and balsamic vinegar in the topping brighten the pasta, while the seasoned chicken adds savory depth. This quick and easy recipe, ready in under 30 minutes, is not only packed with flavor but also customizable. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether as a weeknight dinner or a special meal.

Ingredients

For the Bruschetta Topping:

  • 3 medium ripe tomatoes, diced (or 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved)

  • ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced into strips

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

  • 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)

  • Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Make the Bruschetta Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine and set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the chicken and pasta.

  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

  4. Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta, chicken, and bruschetta topping together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or balsamic vinegar if needed.

  5. Serve: Divide the pasta among plates or bowls. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and extra fresh basil if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4–6

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Add Veggies: Stir in sautéed spinach, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for extra nutrition.

  • Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.

  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish safe for everyone.

  • Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp, sausage, or tofu for the chicken.

  • Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of ricotta or mascarpone cheese for a creamy version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of olive oil to refresh the flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Yes, penne, fusilli, or spaghetti all work well for this dish.

2. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, shrimp, sausage, or tofu are great substitutes.

3. How do I keep the chicken tender?

Avoid overcooking the chicken to ensure it remains juicy and tender.

4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like roasted red peppers or mushrooms.

5. How can I add more flavor to the bruschetta topping?

Feel free to add a little extra garlic or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to enhance the flavor.

6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the chicken and bruschetta topping ahead of time to make the final assembly quicker.

7. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the bruschetta topping for extra heat.

8. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil provides the best flavor, but dried basil can be used in a pinch—just reduce the amount since dried basil is more concentrated.

9. Can I add cheese to the pasta?

Yes, grated Parmesan or mozzarella would pair wonderfully with this dish.

10. Can I freeze this pasta?

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the pasta and chicken separately for up to 1 month. Reheat and assemble before serving.

Conclusion

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is the perfect balance of fresh and savory ingredients that come together to create a simple yet flavorful meal. With the delicious burst of the bruschetta topping, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is bound to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, this recipe is quick, satisfying, and full of vibrant flavors.


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Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

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  • Author: Amy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings
  • Category: Main Course, Pasta
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and fresh dish that combines tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, aromatic basil, and pasta. Topped with a balsamic vinaigrette-infused bruschetta mixture, this recipe is not only easy and quick but also customizable. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a special meal for family and friends.


Ingredients

For the Bruschetta Topping:

3 medium ripe tomatoes, diced (or 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved)

¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced into strips

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)

Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving


Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  • Make the Bruschetta Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine, then set aside to let the flavors meld.

  • Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

  • Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta, chicken, and bruschetta topping together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or balsamic vinegar if needed.

  • Serve: Divide the pasta among plates or bowls. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and extra fresh basil if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.


Notes

Add Veggies: Stir in sautéed spinach, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for extra nutrition.

Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish safe for everyone.

Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp, sausage, or tofu for the chicken.

Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of ricotta or mascarpone cheese for a creamy version.

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