Name: Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice); 1 tablespoon olive oil (for pasta); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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A fresh, vibrant pasta dish that combines juicy, golden-seared chicken with a tangy tomato-basil topping—Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is where classic Italian flavors meet hearty, weeknight comfort. With the rich umami of garlic, the brightness of cherry tomatoes, and a splash of balsamic, I get all the zing of bruschetta in a filling, satisfying pasta bowl.

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

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

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)

1 tablespoon olive oil (for pasta)

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

I start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear it in a hot skillet with olive oil until golden and fully cooked—about 6 to 7 minutes per side. Once done, I let the chicken rest for five minutes before slicing it into strips.

While the chicken cooks, I boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. After draining, I reserve half a cup of pasta water to help build the sauce later.

In the same skillet I used for the chicken, I add more olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Then I toss in halved cherry tomatoes and let them soften for a few minutes.

I stir in balsamic vinegar and fresh basil, cooking it all together until the flavors meld. Seasoning to taste, I then combine the sauce with the pasta and toss everything together, using a splash of reserved pasta water to create a light, glossy coating.

I finish by plating the pasta, topping it with the juicy chicken slices and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories per serving: 450 kcal

Variations

I sometimes swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian spin.

Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic step gives a spicy kick I enjoy.

For a creamier version, I stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese with the tomatoes.

I use gluten-free pasta when serving guests with dietary restrictions—it works beautifully here.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the pasta moist and reheat it gently in a skillet or microwave. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it just as good the next day.

FAQs

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

I cook the pasta and chicken in advance, store them separately, and combine them with the tomato-basil mixture right before serving.

What’s the best pasta type for this recipe?

I usually go with penne or spaghetti, but any sturdy pasta like fusilli or farfalle works well.

Can I make this recipe low-carb?

Yes, I sometimes swap out the pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter option.

Do I have to use balsamic vinegar?

It’s a key flavor in this recipe, but if I’m out, I use a splash of red wine vinegar with a touch of honey as a substitute.

Can I freeze Bruschetta Chicken Pasta?

I don’t recommend freezing it, as the fresh tomatoes and basil lose their texture, but I’ve had success freezing the cooked chicken separately.

Conclusion

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is my go-to when I want something quick, fresh, and satisfying. It combines wholesome ingredients with big flavor and feels like a dinner straight out of a cozy Italian kitchen. Whether I’m making it for family or just treating myself, it’s a dish I keep coming back to.

Recipe:

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Low Calorie

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Description

A vibrant, weeknight pasta dish that combines seared chicken with a tangy tomato-basil bruschetta topping, creating a satisfying and fresh Italian-inspired meal.

Instructions

Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions; drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
In the same skillet, heat more olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
Add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened.
Stir in balsamic vinegar and fresh basil; cook until flavors meld.
Combine sauce with pasta, using reserved pasta water to create a light coating.
Plate pasta, top with sliced chicken, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.