Imagine stepping into your kitchen, ready to create a masterpiece that marries the rustic charm of Italian bruschetta with the heartiness of tender chicken and pasta.
As the aroma of sautéed garlic mingles with ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, your senses tingle with anticipation.
The sizzle of chicken in the pan promises a savory delight, while the warmth of olive oil and a Parmesan sprinkle await to crown your creation.
Curious yet? There’s more to uncover.
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 large pot
- 1 large skillet
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 cutting board
- 1 chef’s knife
- 1 wooden spoon
- 1 colander
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta of choice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking Bruschetta Chicken Pasta, here’s a suggested timeline:
- Reading & Preparation (5 minutes)
- Quickly read through the entire recipe to familiarize yourself with the steps and ingredients.
- Prep Work (10 minutes)
- Gather and measure all ingredients.
- Halve cherry tomatoes and mince garlic.
- Chop fresh basil leaves.
- Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook Time (25 minutes)
- Minute 0-10: Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Minute 10-15: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- Minute 15-20: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest. In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until tomatoes are softened.
- Minute 20-22: Stir in balsamic vinegar and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Minute 22-25: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the tomato mixture. Stir in the sliced chicken and fresh basil.
- Resting & Serving (5 minutes)
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Recipe Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until tomatoes are softened.
Stir in balsamic vinegar and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the tomato mixture.
Stir in the sliced chicken and fresh basil.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Serving Tips
- Garlic Bread: A classic side that complements the Italian flavors of the pasta.
- Caesar Salad: Adds a revitalizing, crisp element to the meal with its creamy dressing and crunchy croutons.
- Roasted Vegetables: Provides added nutrition and a variety of textures to the dish.
- Antipasto Platter: Offers a variety of meats, cheeses, and olives for a savory appetizer before the main course.
- Italian Wine: Pair with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or a robust red like Chianti to enhance the dining experience.
Storage
Store leftover Bruschetta Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying.
Freezing
To freeze Bruschetta Chicken Pasta, cool it completely.
Portion into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Reheating
To reheat Bruschetta Chicken Pasta, use a skillet over low heat.
Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying.
Stir gently until heated through.
Guarantee even warmth.
Final Thoughts
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a delightful fusion of Italian flavors that combines the freshness of bruschetta with hearty pasta.
With its simple preparation and delicious taste, it’s a favorite for busy weeknights.
The dish is easy to customize, allowing you to adjust it to your taste preferences.
Whether you’re a fan of extra garlic, more basil, or a creamier sauce, there are plenty of ways to make this dish your own.
Pair it with a crisp salad or a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Enjoy the vibrant taste of Italy in every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta for a Healthier Option?
You can definitely use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. It’ll add a nutty flavor and a hearty texture. Pair it with the juicy chicken and aromatic basil for a delightful, wholesome twist on the dish.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese if I’m Lactose Intolerant?
You can substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a nutty, cheesy flavor without lactose. Its savory taste will perfectly complement the dish, providing that umami punch you’re craving. Sprinkle generously and indulge in a delightful culinary experience.
Is It Possible to Make This Dish Vegetarian?
You can transform this dish into a vegetarian delight by replacing the chicken with hearty, grilled portobello mushrooms. Their earthy aroma complements the basil and tomatoes, creating a satisfying, meat-free experience that’s rich and flavorful.
How Can I Adjust the Recipe for a Spicier Flavor?
To spice it up, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the garlic and tomatoes. Savor the fiery aroma as it sizzles, and let that heat infuse every bite with a tantalizing kick.
Can I Use Dried Basil Instead of Fresh Basil?
You can substitute dried basil for fresh, but use less as it’s more concentrated. Expect a slightly muted aroma and flavor. Crush the basil between your fingers to release its oils, enhancing the dish’s aromatic appeal.
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- 1 Large pot
- 1 large skillet
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Chef's knife
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 colander
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta of choice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast boneless and skinless
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until tomatoes are softened.
- Stir in balsamic vinegar and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the tomato mixture.
- Stir in the sliced chicken and fresh basil.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
