Description
A fresh and flavorful Italian-inspired pasta dish combining juicy seasoned chicken, ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and al dente pasta for a bright yet comforting meal.
Ingredients
- For the Bruschetta Topping:
- 2 cups (300g) cherry or Roma tomatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- For the Chicken & Pasta:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz (225g) penne or spaghetti pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and fresh basil. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
6. Drain the pasta and toss with a small drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with any remaining juices from the chicken.
8. Toss the pasta with the bruschetta topping and sliced chicken until well combined.
9. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and optional red pepper flakes.
10. Serve warm with extra basil and Parmesan for garnish.
Notes
Use fresh tomatoes and basil for the best authentic bruschetta flavor.
Let the bruschetta topping sit before mixing so the flavors fully develop.
Slice the chicken thinly so it distributes evenly throughout the pasta and is easier to eat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g