Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta brings the vibrant flavors of a sunny Italian afternoon straight to your dinner table. This dish features bright cherry tomatoes that soften into juicy perfection alongside golden-seared chicken and al dente pasta, all brought together with the aromatic punch of fresh basil and creamy mozzarella.

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Finished with a tangy splash of balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, this meal strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and fresh, summery fare. It is an ideal way to showcase seasonal produce while keeping preparation simple and straightforward.

Ingredients

• Pasta & Chicken: 12 ounces penne or fusilli pasta, 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (trimmed).
• Aromatics & Vegetables: 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 small shallot (finely chopped), 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved).
• Oils & Vinegar: 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (divided), 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar.
• Herbs & Cheese: 8 fresh basil leaves (thinly sliced), 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped), ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish), ½ cup diced fresh mozzarella.
• Seasonings: ½ teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste), ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (plus more to taste), Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional).
• Other: ¼ cup pasta cooking water (reserved).

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ¼ cup of the cooking water, then drain and set pasta aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season both sides of the chicken breasts with ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper.

Step 3: Sear the Protein

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and sear 5–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into ½-inch pieces.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Reduce heat to medium, then sauté the shallot and garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and translucent, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 5: Prepare the Tomato Base

Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften and release juices. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 6: Combine Components

Return the sliced chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss gently to combine. If the mixture seems dry, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 7: Final Toss

Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the fresh basil, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and diced mozzarella until the cheese starts to melt and herbs are evenly distributed.

Step 8: Season and Plate

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Transfer to serving bowls or a large platter.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with extra Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, and a few basil leaves. Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes which offer the sweetest and juiciest results. It is also crucial to allow the chicken to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing; this helps keep the meat tender and prevents the juices from running out.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and increase the cheese amount or add white beans for a boost of plant-based protein. You can also add more greens by tossing in a handful of arugula or baby spinach just before serving to add a peppery bite.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this pasta warm with a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up the balsamic tomato juices. A light, crisp white wine or a sparkling water with lemon pairs beautifully with the fresh basil and acidic tomatoes.

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This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a testament to the beauty of Italian-American cooking, delivering a restaurant-quality meal that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Enjoy this fresh, mouthwatering meal with family and friends for the ultimate dining experience.

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes this bruschetta-style?

The combination of cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, mozzarella, and balsamic vinegar mirrors classic bruschetta toppings, just transformed into a hearty pasta dish with seared chicken.

→ Can I use different pasta shapes?

Absolutely. Penne and fusilli work beautifully to catch the tomato juices and cheese, but rigatoni, rotini, or even spaghetti would make delicious alternatives.

→ How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Season generously before searing, cook to 165°F internal temperature, and always let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This redistributes juices throughout the meat.

→ What's the purpose of pasta water?

The starchy cooking water helps bind the tomatoes, oil, and vinegar into a silky coating that clings to the pasta rather than pooling at the bottom of the bowl.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Simply omit the chicken. For protein, add white beans, chickpeas, or increase the mozzarella and Parmesan quantities. The dish remains delicious and satisfying.