Easy Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken boobs work best here. You could swap them with thighs if you want something juicier. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a tasty alternative!

Balsamic Vinegar: This gives a lovely tangy flavor to the chicken. You can substitute with red wine vinegar or even apple cider vinegar if balsamic isn’t available.

Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini for its fun shape and ability to hold the sauce. Feel free to use any pasta type you have on hand – penne or spaghetti also work fine!

Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes bring sweetness. If they’re not in season, canned diced tomatoes can work too. Just drain them to avoid excess liquid.

Fresh Basil: Basil adds a lovely aroma! If you don’t have fresh, you could use about a teaspoon of dried basil, but fresh really shines in this dish.

How Do You Grill Chicken Perfectly?

Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here are some steps to ensure it turns out juicy and flavorful:

• Make sure your chicken is evenly sized for even cooking.
• Don’t skip the marinating time! It infuses flavor and helps keep the chicken moist.
• Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high – a hot grill sears the meat nicely.
• Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Let it rest for a few minutes after grilling. This lets the juices redistribute and makes for a juicier bite!

Easy Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Balsamic Grilled Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Tomato Basil Pasta:

• 8 oz rotini pasta (or your favorite pasta)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, plus extra for garnish
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This dish will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 15 minutes marinating the chicken and prepping the pasta and sauce, followed by about 15 minutes for cooking everything together. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

In a medium bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, turning them to ensure they’re coated with the marinade. Let the chicken sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour if you have time. This will enhance the flavor!

2. Cook the Pasta:

While the chicken is marinating, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Prepare the Tomatoes:

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 3-5 minutes until they are soft and juicy.

4. Grill the Chicken:

Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill each side for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the cooked tomatoes and garlic. Toss everything together gently to combine. Stir in the fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese, adjusting salt and pepper to taste. Make sure everything is warmed through.

6. Serve:

Plate the pasta mixture onto serving dishes, and top with the sliced balsamic grilled chicken. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your colorful and tasty Easy Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken!

FAQ – Easy Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding onto the sauce, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time according to the packaging instructions for your chosen pasta.

How Long Can I Store Leftovers?

You can store leftover pasta and grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?

Yes! Marinating the chicken overnight in the refrigerator will infuse it with even more flavor. Just make sure to keep it covered in the marinade until you’re ready to grill.

What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?

If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different yet delicious flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste will be slightly different, but still tasty!