🍝 Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe
Description
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a vibrant, Italian-inspired dish that combines the fresh flavors of traditional tomato bruschetta with tender grilled chicken and al dente pasta. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual dinner party. The juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, and garlic blend beautifully with the savory chicken and pasta, creating a satisfying and healthy dish.
📝 Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
- 1 pound (450 g) penne pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional but recommended)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
👩🍳 Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Bruschetta Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, garlic, basil, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Toss gently and let it sit for at least 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Cook the Chicken
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Grill or pan-sear over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature: 165°F / 74°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- Combine Everything
- In a large skillet, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the cooked pasta, bruschetta mixture, and sliced chicken.
- Toss gently until everything is well coated and heated through. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serve
- Divide into bowls and top with Parmesan cheese and extra basil if desired.
- Serve warm or slightly chilled for a refreshing twist.
🍽️ Servings
- Serves 4 people
🌿 Nutritional Information (per serving)
(Approximate values)
- Calories: 460 kcal
- Protein: 32 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fat: 13 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sodium: 190 mg
- Sugars: 5 g
💡 Notes
- You can use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for a healthier twist.
- Letting the tomato mixture sit helps develop rich, fresh flavors.
- Add mozzarella pearls or avocado slices for a creamier texture.
- Can be served warm or cold, making it ideal for meal prep or picnics.
👩🍳 Tips
- Grill the chicken for a smoky flavor, or use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Don’t overcook pasta — al dente texture holds up best with the fresh tomato mix.
- Use ripe cherry tomatoes — their sweetness balances the savory chicken.
- Add a splash of balsamic glaze before serving for a restaurant-style finish.
🌈 Health Benefits
- High in protein — supports muscle repair and maintenance.
- Rich in antioxidants from tomatoes, garlic, and basil.
- Heart-healthy fats from olive oil.
- Low in saturated fat, making it a balanced and wholesome meal.
❓ Q&A
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the bruschetta topping and grilled chicken a day ahead. Combine with pasta just before serving.
Q2: What can I use instead of chicken?
Try shrimp, grilled tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Q3: Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely — just use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Q4: How long will leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Tastes great cold as a pasta salad!
Q5: What can I serve it with?
Pair with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.