Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a fresh take on classic Italian flavors, combining juicy chicken and tangy bruschetta with pasta for a well-rounded, satisfying dish. It’s simple to prepare, packed with fresh ingredients, and full of bright, zesty flavors that are both comforting and healthy. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your tastes or what’s in your pantry.
Ingredients
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12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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3 tbsp olive oil, divided
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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3 cups diced fresh tomatoes
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1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
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1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
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2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese (optional)
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Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Cook Pasta:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
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Drain and set aside.
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Prepare Chicken:
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Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
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Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked.
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Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing into strips.
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Make Bruschetta:
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In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, parsley, balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper.
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Let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
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Assemble Pasta:
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In a large bowl or skillet, toss cooked pasta with bruschetta mixture.
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Add sliced chicken on top.
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Sprinkle with mozzarella or Parmesan cheese if desired.
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Serve:
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Serve warm with lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness.
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Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Cook time: 20 minutes
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Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
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Protein Swap: Use shrimp, tofu, or grilled vegetables instead of chicken.
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Cheese Options: Try fresh mozzarella balls or crumbled feta.
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Add Greens: Toss in arugula or spinach for extra nutrition.
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Pasta Alternatives: Use whole wheat, gluten-free, or zucchini noodles.
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Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or water to loosen the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use canned tomatoes for bruschetta?
Fresh tomatoes are best for texture and flavor, but canned diced tomatoes can be used in a pinch.
How do I keep the pasta from getting soggy?
Toss pasta with bruschetta just before serving and avoid over-mixing.
Can I grill the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, grilled chicken can be prepared in advance and reheated.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Omit chicken and add more vegetables or plant-based protein.
What kind of balsamic vinegar should I use?
Use good quality balsamic vinegar for best flavor.
Can I prepare bruschetta in advance?
Yes, but add garlic and basil just before serving for freshness.
How do I make this dish dairy-free?
Omit cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Can I use other herbs?
Thyme or oregano can be substituted for basil and parsley.
What sides go well with this pasta?
Serve with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables.
Conclusion
Chicken Bruschetta Pasta is a fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that brings the vibrant taste of Italian bruschetta to your dinner table with the added heartiness of chicken and pasta. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to become a family favorite for its bright flavors and satisfying texture.
Chicken Bruschetta Pasta
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pressure Cooking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Chicken Bruschetta Pasta is a vibrant, fresh, and easy-to-make Italian-inspired dish featuring tender grilled chicken, juicy tomato bruschetta, and al dente pasta tossed in a light garlic and olive oil sauce. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual entertaining, this flavorful meal balances bright, fresh flavors with satisfying heartiness.
Ingredients
-
12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
-
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
-
3 tbsp olive oil, divided
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
3 cups diced fresh tomatoes
-
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
-
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
-
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
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Salt and black pepper to taste
-
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
-
Cook Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. -
Prepare Chicken:
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing into strips. -
Make Bruschetta:
In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, parsley, balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld. -
Assemble Pasta:
In a large bowl or skillet, toss cooked pasta with the bruschetta mixture. Add sliced chicken on top. Sprinkle with mozzarella or Parmesan cheese if desired. -
Serve:
Serve warm with lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness.
Notes
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.Substitute shrimp, tofu, or grilled vegetables for chicken to change up the protein.Add arugula or spinach for extra greens and nutrition.For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or jalapeños.Prepare grilled chicken ahead of time to save time on busy nights.
