This Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a tasty and quick meal for busy nights! It’s made with juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and lovely pasta, bringing a burst of flavor to your table.
I love how fast this comes together—I can whip it up in under 30 minutes! Perfect for when I want a hearty dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This recipe calls for penne, but you can easily swap it for any pasta shape you have like fusilli or rotini. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can work well if you’re looking for a healthier option.
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts since they cook quickly. You can use chicken thighs for a juicier bite or rotisserie chicken to save time even more!
Tomatoes: Cherry or Roma tomatoes add a sweet and juicy touch. If they’re not in season, canned diced tomatoes can be a good substitute—just drain them well before use.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for flavor, but if you don’t have any, dried basil works too! Just use about one-third of the dried amount, as it’s more potent.
Parmesan Cheese: While optional, Parmesan adds a nice finish. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can be a tasty alternative for a cheesy flavor!
How Do You Cook Chicken Perfectly in a Skillet?
Cooking chicken in a skillet is quick but can sometimes be tricky. Here are my tips to ensure juicy and perfectly cooked chicken:
- Cut the chicken into even bite-sized pieces so that they cook uniformly.
- Heat the skillet to medium-high but not too hot—if it’s smoking, the chicken will burn instead of brown nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary, as this helps them sear rather than steam.
- Check for doneness by cutting into a piece—the juices should run clear when fully cooked.
With these tips, you can achieve delicious chicken every time! Enjoy your pasta dish—it’s a wonderful weeknight meal!
Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes or Roma tomatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook. So, in just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and hearty meal ready for your busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (that means it’s still a little firm). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. While the oil is heating, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken into the skillet and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, toss in the diced tomatoes and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly. This is where all the flavors begin to come together!
4. Combine Everything:
Next, bring the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic. Gently toss everything together to combine. Now, add in the cooked pasta, stirring everything together to coat it in the delicious sauce.
5. Finish It Off:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil, and if you’re feeling fancy, drizzle some balsamic vinegar over the top for an extra flavor kick. Finally, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve:
Serve the pasta warm in bowls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy this delightful meal that captures all the vibrant, fresh flavors of bruschetta!
This Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights, bringing a burst of flavor without much fuss. Enjoy your cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for penne pasta, feel free to substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer. Fusilli, rotini, or spaghetti all work well. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose!
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, dried basil is a great alternative. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more potent. Alternatively, fresh parsley or oregano can also add nice flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes, you can definitely add more vegetables! Zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers would make great additions. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the tomatoes to ensure they cook properly.
