Description
A delicious and straightforward Bruschetta Chicken Pasta recipe that brings the fresh, vibrant flavors of classic bruschetta to your dinner table in a satisfying pasta dish. Easy to make, perfect for weeknights or entertaining.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 pound of your favorite pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work wonderfully)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
- Optional: 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for richness
- Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season generously with salt and pepper.
- 2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta al dente according to package directions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- 3. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until softened, then add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in red pepper flakes if using.
- 4. Cook the Chicken: Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through.
- 5. Add Tomatoes: Pour in undrained diced tomatoes and add halved cherry tomatoes. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- 6. Incorporate Balsamic and Basil: Stir in balsamic glaze and chopped fresh basil. Add butter if using.
- 7. Combine with Pasta: Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired sauce consistency.
- 8. Finish and Season: Stir in Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Add lemon juice if desired.
- 9. Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
Notes
Allow pasta to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a little added liquid, or in the microwave or oven. Avoid over-reheating to maintain texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: approx. 450-600 (depending on portion and ingredients)
- Sugar: approx. 8-15g
- Sodium: approx. 300-600mg (can vary greatly)
- Fat: approx. 15-25g
- Carbohydrates: approx. 45-60g
- Fiber: approx. 4-7g
- Protein: approx. 30-40g