A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that combines the fresh, bright taste of bruschetta with tender chicken and perfectly cooked spaghetti. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Marinate the Bruschetta Topping: In a medium bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Cover and refrigerate to marinate while you prepare the pasta and chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and cook spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with Italian seasoning. Sauté until fully cooked. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Step 5: Combine Everything: Pour the remaining tablespoon of olive oil into the same skillet. Sauté the marinated bruschetta mixture for 1-2 minutes. Return the cooked chicken and add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss until everything is well mixed and heated through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve: Top with Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a winner for several reasons:
- Fresh Flavors: The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tangy balsamic vinegar creates a bright and refreshing taste.
- Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this dish can be on your table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe to your liking by adding other vegetables, using different types of pasta, or substituting the chicken with shrimp or sausage.
- Crowd-Pleasing: The familiar flavors of bruschetta combined with the comfort of pasta make this a dish that everyone will enjoy.
- Healthy-ish: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this pasta dish is a relatively healthy and satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great accompaniment to balance the richness of the pasta.
- For a more complete meal, add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat for those who like a little spice.
Tips:
- Marinate for maximum flavor: Allowing the tomato mixture to marinate for at least 30 minutes will intensify the flavors. You can even prepare it a few hours in advance.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the spaghetti al dente, meaning it should be firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta will become mushy when combined with the sauce.
- Save some pasta water: Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1/2 cup of the cooking water. This starchy water can be added to the sauce to help it cling to the pasta and create a creamier texture.
- Adjust the balsamic glaze: The balsamic glaze is optional, but it adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the other flavors. Use it sparingly, as it can be quite strong.
- Use fresh ingredients: The quality of the ingredients will make a big difference in the final result. Use fresh basil, ripe cherry tomatoes, and good-quality Parmesan cheese.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 550-650 per serving
- Protein: 35-45g
- Sodium: 600-800mg
Conclusion:
This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of summer all year round. It’s a quick, easy, and versatile dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for a potluck, this recipe is a winner.
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While spaghetti is a classic choice, you can use any type of pasta you like. Penne, rotini, or farfalle would all work well in this recipe.
Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, simply omit the chicken or substitute it with grilled halloumi cheese, white beans, or additional vegetables.
Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While the pasta is best served fresh, you can prepare the bruschetta topping and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them with the cooked pasta just before serving.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Definitely! Zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms would all be great additions to this dish. Add them to the skillet along with the bruschetta mixture and sauté until tender.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat.
