If you love the vibrant flavors of bruschetta combined with hearty pasta, this Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish for you! This delicious recipe combines juicy grilled chicken, ripe cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tangy balsamic vinegar, all tossed with penne pasta. It’s easy to make, full of fresh ingredients, and bursting with flavor, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights or a weekend dinner with friends and family!

This recipe not only satisfies your pasta cravings but also brings a fresh twist with the bright flavors of the traditional bruschetta topping. Whether you’re a pasta enthusiast or someone looking to try something new, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh & Healthy – Packed with fresh ingredients for a light yet satisfying meal.
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.

Bursting with Flavor – The balsamic, garlic, and basil elevate the taste profile.
Customizable – Easily tweak ingredients to suit dietary preferences.
Kid-Friendly – A flavorful meal that even picky eaters will enjoy.

Perfect for Meal Prep – Great for making ahead for lunches or dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Grilled and sliced for a juicy protein addition.
1 pound penne pasta – Holds the sauce well and provides a satisfying bite.

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved – Adds natural sweetness and freshness.
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped – Brings a bit of sharpness to balance the flavors.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped – A key ingredient for that classic bruschetta taste.
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar – Adds a tangy, slightly sweet kick.
1/3 cup olive oil – Enhances flavors and ensures a smooth texture.

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Provides a savory, salty finish.
Salt and pepper to taste – Brings all the flavors together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cooking the pasta al dente ensures the perfect texture when combined with the bruschetta mixture. This texture is key to making the dish feel hearty and satisfying.

Step 2: Prepare the Bruschetta Mixture

In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red onion, garlic, and basil. Drizzle in the balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, then toss everything together.

Allowing the mixture to sit for a few minutes helps the flavors meld together beautifully. This resting time brings out the natural juices in the tomatoes and creates a flavorful base for the pasta.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

While the bruschetta mixture is resting, grill or pan-sear the chicken breasts over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.

Resting the chicken ensures it stays juicy and tender when you slice it. Slicing it thinly allows it to mix evenly with the pasta and bruschetta, enhancing every bite.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the cooked pasta and the bruschetta mixture. Stir gently to combine and heat everything through for 2-3 minutes.

Add the grilled chicken slices, tossing everything together so the flavors infuse and the chicken warms up.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Serve the pasta in bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with extra basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy this delicious, fresh, and hearty meal with your loved ones!

Variations & Customizations

Make it Spicy – Add crushed red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
Use Different Pasta – Swap penne for spaghetti, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta.
Add Mozzarella – Toss in mini mozzarella balls for a creamy, cheesy addition.

Vegetarian Option – Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or even tofu.
Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free pasta for a dietary-friendly alternative.

Tips for the Best Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, and high-quality balsamic vinegar make a huge difference in flavor.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Keep it al dente so it holds up in the dish and doesn’t become too soft.
Let the Chicken Rest – Resting the chicken before slicing ensures it remains juicy and flavorful.
Toss Gently – Stirring too vigorously can break the delicate tomatoes and garlic, so be gentle when combining the ingredients.

Adjust to Taste – Add more balsamic for extra tanginess, or top with more Parmesan for a richer flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta pairs wonderfully with:

Garlic Bread – A crunchy, buttery side that complements the fresh flavors of the pasta.
Side Salad – A light side salad, such as arugula or Caesar salad, balances out the meal.
Chilled White Wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio will pair nicely with the tangy balsamic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

What’s the best way to grill the chicken?
Season with salt, pepper, and a little Italian seasoning. Grill over medium heat for 5-6 minutes per side until cooked through and juicy.

Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?
Absolutely! Drizzling balsamic glaze on top adds extra depth and sweetness, making it even easier to serve.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes! Cook everything ahead, store in separate containers, and mix everything together when ready to eat.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to make the dish suitable for a dairy-free diet.

Final Thoughts

This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is the ultimate combination of fresh ingredients, satisfying pasta, and juicy grilled chicken. The tangy balsamic vinegar and aromatic basil provide depth, while the tomatoes add natural sweetness. Together, these elements create a well-balanced, flavorful meal that’s both simple and delicious.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking to impress your guests, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Author: Diana Carrozza

Print Recipe

Description

This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a deliciously fresh and flavorful dish that brings together the savory richness of grilled chicken with the vibrant, zesty flavors of a classic bruschetta topping. The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, red onion, garlic, and basil tossed in a balsamic and olive oil dressing adds a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the tender pasta and grilled chicken. Topped with grated Parmesan cheese, this dish is the perfect balance of fresh and comforting. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special meal with loved ones!

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled and sliced

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

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, red onion, garlic, and basil. Add balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine.

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the cooked pasta with the tomato mixture. Heat through, stirring gently.

Add the grilled, sliced chicken to the skillet and toss to combine.

Serve the pasta in bowls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta: A Fresh & Flavorful Meal