**Bruschetta Chicken Pasta**
Preparation Time: 15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes.
Total Time: 45 minutes.
Serving: 4
Bring a taste of Italy to your table with this Bruschetta Chicken Pasta. Rich in flavor, this dish is a delightful mix of juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, tender chicken, and pasta that will turn any meal into a feast.
## Why Make This Recipe
With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners, and it’s sure to impress your guests at dinner parties.
One can never go wrong with a dish that harmoniously combines protein, pasta, and vegetables, making it a nutritious and delicious meal.
## How to Make Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
## Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
– Optional: 1/4 cup balsamic glaze for drizzling
## Directions:
1. Prepare your pasta by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. After cooking the pasta as per package instructions to achieve an al dente texture, drain and set it aside.
2. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until thoroughly cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and rest it for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until it becomes fragrant, this typically takes about 1 minute. Add in the cherry tomatoes and balsamic vinegar and sauté for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
4. Combine the cooked pasta, tomato mixture, sliced chicken, and most of the basil, and Parmesan cheese (leaving some for garnishing). Toss until everything is well mixed and heated.
5. Your Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is ready to serve. Plate it and garnish with the remaining Parmesan cheese and basil. Drizzle some balsamic glaze, if desired, for a burst of flavor!
## How to Serve Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Serve the pasta warm on a plate or in a bowl. This meal pairs wonderfully well with a side of fresh salad or steam vegetables, enhancing its nutritional benefits.
## How to Store Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Store the cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within two days. For reheating, simply place it in a microwave or warm it on the stovetop in a skillet, adding a little extra olive oil to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
## Tips to Make Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Use fresh ingredients for a better flavor. Season the chicken well with salt and pepper before cooking, and add a little extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving for added richness.
## Variations
You may incorporate a variety of different vegetables such as zucchini or red bell peppers. You can also swap the chicken for shrimp for a seafood variation.
## FAQs
1. **Can I use any pasta type for this recipe?** Yes, any pasta type works for this recipe, though linguine or spaghetti is most commonly used.
2. **Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil leaves?** Fresh basil leaves are preferred for their potent flavor and aroma. However, in the absence of fresh basil, dried basil can be used as a substitute.
3. **What can be served alongside Bruschetta Chicken Pasta?** A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables make great accompaniments for this meal.