A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish combining the freshness of bruschetta with tender grilled chicken and perfectly cooked penne. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight meal that feels special.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/3 cup olive oil, extra virgin
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling chicken)
- Optional: Balsamic glaze for drizzling
- Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken: Lightly brush the chicken breasts with the 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season generously with salt, pepper, and any other preferred chicken seasoning (Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or paprika work well). Grill the chicken breasts over medium-high heat for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Allowing the chicken to rest helps it retain its juices, resulting in more tender meat.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). It’s crucial not to overcook the pasta, as it will become mushy when combined with the other ingredients. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. The starchy pasta water can be used to adjust the sauce consistency later, if needed. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Bruschetta Mixture: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the bruschetta topping. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, and chopped fresh basil. For the best flavor, ensure the red onion is finely chopped, as larger pieces can be overpowering. Gently mix the ingredients together.
Step 4: Make the Bruschetta Dressing: In a separate small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and the extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the proportions of balsamic vinegar and olive oil to your preference. Some people prefer a tangier dressing with more vinegar, while others prefer a richer dressing with more olive oil.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients: Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the tomato mixture and toss gently to combine. Ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Allow the bruschetta mixture to sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial for developing the best flavor in the bruschetta topping.
Step 6: Assemble the Pasta Dish: In a large skillet or pot, combine the cooked and drained penne pasta with the bruschetta mixture. Gently toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the tomato mixture. Heat the pasta and bruschetta mixture over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the pasta seems dry, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and create a light sauce.
Step 7: Add the Chicken and Parmesan: Add the sliced or chopped grilled chicken to the pasta and bruschetta mixture. Gently toss to combine, ensuring the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the pasta. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and toss gently again. The heat from the pasta will help the Parmesan cheese melt slightly, adding a creamy texture to the dish.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish: Serve the Bruschetta Chicken Pasta immediately in bowls. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of balsamic glaze (optional), and a sprinkle of fresh basil. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also be added for a little heat.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy and quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. Second, it’s packed with fresh, vibrant flavors. The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, tangy balsamic vinegar, and savory grilled chicken creates a delicious and satisfying meal. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds a creamy, salty note that complements the other flavors perfectly. Finally, this recipe is versatile and can be easily customized to your liking. You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach, or substitute the chicken with shrimp or Italian sausage.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: Easy
- Flavor Complexity: Medium
- Time Commitment: Quick
- Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing complements the pasta perfectly.
- Garlic bread: Toasted garlic bread is a classic pairing with pasta dishes.
- Grilled vegetables: Serve alongside grilled zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for a complete and healthy meal.
- White wine: A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs well with the flavors of the pasta.
Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of this dish relies on fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially the cherry tomatoes, basil, and balsamic vinegar.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the other ingredients.
- Adjust the seasoning to your liking: Taste the bruschetta mixture and adjust the salt, pepper, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil to your preference.
- Grill the chicken to perfection: Ensure the chicken is cooked through but not overcooked to prevent it from becoming dry.
- Make it ahead: The bruschetta mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld together even more. The chicken can also be grilled in advance.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 550-650
- Protein: 40-50g
- Sodium: 300-400mg (depending on salt added)
Conclusion:
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a delightful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Its fresh flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility make it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to deliver. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a taste of Italy in your own home!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the chicken. You can add other vegetables, such as roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant, or even some grilled halloumi cheese for added protein. Another great addition would be some cannellini beans.
Q2: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can definitely use a different type of pasta. While penne is a popular choice for this recipe because it holds the sauce well, other pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or even spaghetti would work well too. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package directions.
Q3: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A: If you like a little heat, there are several ways to add spice to this recipe. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the bruschetta mixture, or you can use a spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken. Alternatively, you can drizzle a little chili oil over the finished dish.
Q4: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare certain components of this dish ahead of time. The bruschetta mixture can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The chicken can also be grilled and sliced ahead of time. However, it’s best to cook the pasta and assemble the dish just before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.
Q5: What is the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover Bruschetta Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through, or heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little water or broth if needed to prevent the pasta from drying out.
