This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta brings all the bright, summery flavors of your favorite Italian appetizer into a satisfying, one-bowl meal. Juicy pan-seared chicken is tossed with pasta, vine-ripened tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a dish that’s light yet filling. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner when you want bold flavor without the hassle. Fresh, fast, and downright addictive—this pasta checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Bright and fresh bruschetta flavors in every bite.
Juicy, well-seasoned chicken adds hearty protein.
Fast and easy for busy nights.
Balanced with savory, sweet, and acidic notes.
Elegant enough to serve guests, easy enough for weeknights.
Ingredients for Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Get prepped like a pro—here’s your essential ingredient list.
Penne Pasta: This tubular pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite a delight.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Tender and lean, they soak up the flavors of the seasonings.
Olive Oil: A staple in Italian cooking, it adds richness and helps cook the chicken perfectly.
Garlic Powder: For that aromatic kick, it’s a quick way to infuse flavor without the chopping.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they burst with flavor when sautéed, adding freshness to the dish.
Fresh Basil: This herb adds a fragrant touch that elevates the entire meal.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a creamy texture that ties everything together.
Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of this sweet and tangy sauce adds a gourmet finish to your pasta.
For those looking to mix things up, consider marinating the chicken in balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, grilled shrimp can be a fantastic substitute for chicken, giving the dish a seafood twist. You can find all the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps for making this delicious Bruschetta Chicken Pasta. Each step is straightforward, ensuring you can whip this up even on the busiest of nights. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember, you want it firm enough to hold up in the dish. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. A little tip: toss it with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, grab your chicken breasts. Pat them dry with a paper towel, then season both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Sauté the Tomatoes
In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices. This step is crucial as it enhances their natural sweetness. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet with the sautéed tomatoes. Toss everything gently to combine. Stir in the chopped basil and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until the cheese starts to melt and everything is well coated. This is where the magic happens, and the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
To serve, dish out the pasta into bowls. Drizzle each serving with balsamic glaze for that extra zing. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese, allowing it to melt slightly from the heat of the pasta. Enjoy your Bruschetta Chicken Pasta while it’s warm, and watch as everyone digs in with delight!
Tips for Success
Always taste as you go! Adjust seasoning to your preference.
Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Use fresh basil for a vibrant flavor boost.
Feel free to add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Equipment Needed
Large Pot: For boiling pasta; a deep skillet can work in a pinch.
Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for cooking chicken and sautéing tomatoes.
Colander: Essential for draining pasta; a slotted spoon can also do the job.
Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing chicken and chopping basil.
Variations
Grilled Shrimp: Swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp for a lighter, seafood twist.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian dish.
Whole Wheat Pasta: Use whole wheat penne for a healthier, fiber-rich alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sautéed tomatoes for a bit of heat.
Cheese Lovers: Mix in different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a classic Italian touch.
Side Salad: A fresh arugula or mixed greens salad pairs perfectly to balance the meal.
Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a chilled Pinot Grigio or a light red like Chianti.
Presentation: Garnish with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a restaurant-worthy look.
FAQs about Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Can I make Bruschetta Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and pasta in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat everything together in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a different protein, grilled shrimp works wonderfully. You can also use chickpeas for a vegetarian option, adding a nice texture and protein boost.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, and you’ll have a quick meal ready to go!
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Definitely! While penne is perfect for this dish, feel free to swap it out for fusilli, rotini, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
Is Bruschetta Chicken Pasta gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free penne, this dish can easily be made gluten-free. Just check the labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
Cooking should be a joyful experience, and my Bruschetta Chicken Pasta embodies that spirit. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple techniques that come together in a delightful way. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. The vibrant colors and flavors will make you feel like a culinary rock star, even on the busiest of nights. So grab your ingredients, and let this recipe transform your dinner routine into something special!
A delicious and quick recipe for Bruschetta Chicken Pasta that combines tender chicken, fresh tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces penne pasta
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup balsamic glaze
Instructions
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
In the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss everything together until well combined.
Stir in the chopped basil and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until the cheese is slightly melted.
Serve the pasta in bowls, drizzling each serving with balsamic glaze and topping with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Notes
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in balsamic vinegar for 30 minutes before cooking.
You can also substitute grilled shrimp for the chicken for a seafood twist.
