There’s something incredibly satisfying about combining the fresh, vibrant flavors of bruschetta with comforting pasta and tender chicken in one bowl. This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe captures all the brightness of juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tangy balsamic vinegar, perfectly balanced with hearty penne and golden seared chicken. It’s easy to make, bright in color, and packed with flavor, making it an instant favorite for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be coming back for seconds and wanting to share it with everyone you know.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients are the heart of this dish, each adding its own burst of flavor or texture to bring the Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe to life. From juicy tomatoes to perfectly seasoned chicken, every component plays an essential role in crafting this easy Italian-American favorite.
- 12 oz penne or spaghetti pasta: Use your favorite shape to soak up the delicious sauce that ties this dish together.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Essential for sautéing chicken and garlic, adding richness without overpowering flavors.
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces): Tender, lean protein that complements the pasta and sauce beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: The fundamental seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of every ingredient.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that adds depth and hints of oregano, basil, and thyme.
- 4 garlic cloves (minced): Garlic infuses the dish with a savory aroma and subtle bite.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved): Their sweetness and juiciness create that perfect bruschetta freshness in every bite.
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar: Adds a tangy complexity that brightens the sauce with a hint of sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little kick balancing the tomato’s sweetness.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Rich, nutty flavor that melts slightly into the pasta for extra indulgence.
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil: The herbaceous freshness that makes this dish unmistakably Italian.
- Additional chopped tomatoes and basil for garnish (optional): For a picture-perfect finish that looks as good as it tastes.
How to Make Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your penne or spaghetti pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—meaning it’s cooked through but still has a slight bite. This texture is essential because it prevents the pasta from getting mushy once it’s mixed with the sauce later. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining; this starchy water will be your secret weapon to loosen the sauce just when you need it.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is beautifully golden and cooked through. This step ensures your chicken is juicy and flavorful inside while having a delightful crispy outside. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes
In the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds—just until fragrant but not browned. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes. They’ll sizzle and start to soften in about 2 to 3 minutes, releasing their natural juices that will form the base of your sauce.
Step 4: Create the Balsamic Sauce
Pour in the balsamic vinegar and sprinkle the crushed red pepper flakes if you want a gentle heat. Let this simmer for 2 more minutes, allowing the vinegar to reduce slightly and deepen the flavor. This tangy-sweet balsamic glaze is what makes this recipe truly unique and gives it that wonderful bruschetta character.
Step 5: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the tomatoes and balsamic reduction. Toss everything together to combine. Add the drained pasta and slowly stir in some reserved pasta water as needed to loosen and marry all the flavors into a silky sauce. The starch in the pasta water helps hold the sauce together perfectly.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Basil
Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil last. The Parmesan melts into the warm pasta, adding creaminess and a nutty finish, while the basil brings fresh vibrancy that’s so important for the authentic bruschetta taste. Give everything one final toss and you’re ready to serve.
How to Serve Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some extra Parmesan, chopped fresh basil, and halved cherry tomatoes on top before serving for a beautiful presentation and an extra burst of freshness in every bite. Garnishing isn’t just about looks here—it enhances the flavors and keeps things bright and vibrant on the plate.
Side Dishes
This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe shines on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables work wonderfully. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also a classic companion, perfect for mopping up every last bit of that tasty balsamic sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling fancy? Serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls and top with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a few whole basil leaves. Or turn it into a pasta salad by chilling it and serving cold with a splash of extra balsamic vinegar. Either way, it’s sure to impress your guests or family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers—and trust me, you might!—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more, making the next day’s meal just as delicious. Just be sure to keep fresh basil separate if you want to preserve its bright green color.
Freezing
This recipe isn’t ideal for freezing because fresh basil and tomatoes can lose their texture and flavor. However, if you want to freeze, store just the cooked chicken and sauce without the pasta or basil. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth as needed to refresh the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Finish with a little extra Parmesan or basil right before serving to bring back that freshly made feeling.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in the Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or spaghetti are great choices, you can use fusilli, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just pick what you love and what you have on hand.
Is this recipe spicy?
The dish has a mild kick from the optional crushed red pepper flakes. You can adjust or leave them out entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. The dish will still be flavorful thanks to the fresh ingredients and balsamic sauce.
How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cooking it over medium-high heat just until golden ensures it stays tender. Avoid overcooking by stirring occasionally and watching the color closely.
Can this dish be served cold as a pasta salad?
Definitely! This recipe is just as lovely served cold. Toss the pasta salad with a little extra olive oil and fresh basil for a refreshing summer meal.
Final Thoughts
This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create something truly delicious. It’s easy to make, bright with flavor, and satisfying enough for any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience that perfect harmony of juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tender chicken that keeps you craving more. Enjoy every bite—this one’s going to be a keeper!
Print
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free pasta)
Description
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a flavorful Italian-American main course combining tender chicken, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and tangy balsamic vinegar over your choice of penne or spaghetti pasta. This dish is easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be served warm or as a pasta salad for a refreshing summer meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne or spaghetti pasta
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Vegetables and Flavorings
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- Additional chopped tomatoes and basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Cook Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add Balsamic Vinegar and Simmer: Stir in the balsamic vinegar and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Let the mixture simmer for about 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to combine with the tomato mixture. Add the cooked pasta and pour in the reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency.
- Finish with Cheese and Basil: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil until well combined and heated through.
- Serve: Serve the bruschetta chicken pasta warm, topped with additional chopped tomatoes, basil, and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a lower-carb alternative, serve the dish over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta.
- You can substitute fresh tomatoes with store-bought bruschetta topping if short on time.
- This recipe is versatile and tastes great when served warm or chilled as a pasta salad.
