Bruschetta Chicken with Pasta
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Bruschetta Chicken with Pasta is a delightful fusion of flavors that captures the essence of summer, bringing the freshness of tomatoes and basil together with tender chicken and delicate pasta. This dish is perfect for busy weekdays, casual family dinners, or even special occasions when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, the aroma of sizzling garlic and fresh herbs will transport you to a rustic Italian kitchen, making it a go-to recipe in your repertoire.
What Makes This Recipe Special
You’ll love this dish as it’s not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also packs a flavor punch that even the pickiest eaters will appreciate. Picture this: juicy chicken paired with a vibrant bruschetta mixture atop a nest of angel hair pasta. It’s a comforting yet elegant meal that brings people together, whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and makes use of fresh summer produce when tomatoes and basil are at their peak.
"I made this for my family last week, and it was a hit! The bright tastes of the bruschetta paired with the chicken and pasta were a winning combination. Will definitely make it again!" – Happy Customer
Preparing Bruschetta Chicken with Pasta
The beauty of this dish lies in its straightforward preparation. You’ll start with blending the bruschetta ingredients, and while they sit to infuse flavors, you’ll cook your chicken and pasta. This method allows the fresh ingredients to shine while keeping your time in the kitchen remarkably short. In about 30 minutes, you’ll create a meal that looks and tastes gourmet!
What You’ll Need
To whip up Bruschetta Chicken with Pasta, gather the following essentials:
- 1 pound Roma tomatoes, seeded and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup torn fresh basil, plus extra leaves for garnish
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ pound angel hair pasta
- 1-1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Balsamic glaze (optional for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for tossing the pasta)
Feel free to swap out the angel hair pasta for your favorite type or experiment with different fresh herbs, depending on your taste preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prepare the Bruschetta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the diced Roma tomatoes, minced garlic, torn basil, and balsamic vinegar. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let this mixture sit at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return it to the pot. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.
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Sauté the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate, cover it with foil, and let it rest.
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Combine Everything: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and stir in the bruschetta mixture. Cook just for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Turn off the heat, then add the cooked pasta and toss to combine, adjusting with more olive oil if necessary.
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Plate It Up: Slice the chicken breasts and add them to the pasta. Serve in bowls, garnishing with fresh basil leaves. If desired, drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with grated Parmesan or Mozzarella cheese before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
For an appealing presentation, layer the pasta on the plate first, then fan out slices of chicken on top. You can serve this dish with a light salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette or garlic bread for that authentic Italian touch. Pairing with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio can also elevate the dining experience.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a few drops of water to maintain moisture.
Pro Chef Tips
- Always taste as you go! This ensures you can adjust seasoning to perfectly suit your palate.
- Letting the bruschetta mixture sit allows it to develop richer flavors; don’t skip this step.
- A meat thermometer is your best friend for perfectly cooked chicken—avoid guesswork.
Creative Twists
- Want a bit of a kick? Add some red pepper flakes to the bruschetta mixture for a spicy twist.
- Substitute chicken with shrimp or grilled vegetables for a delightful twist that accommodates different diets.
- For a richer flavor, use heirloom tomatoes instead of Roma.
Your Questions Answered
How long does this take to prepare?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for busy evenings.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to switch to penne, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta if you prefer.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta and chicken mixture for up to 2 months.
Bruschetta Chicken with Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced Roma tomatoes, minced garlic, torn basil, and balsamic vinegar. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let sit at room temperature to meld flavors.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer chicken to a plate and cover with foil.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and stir in the bruschetta mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Then add the cooked pasta and toss to combine.
- Slice chicken breasts and add to the pasta. Serve in bowls, garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
