This Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta combines yummy chicken with fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic. It’s like a taste of Italy right on your plate!
I love how quick this dish is to whip up. You can have a tasty meal ready in no time. Plus, it’s perfect for impressing friends or just treating yourself to something special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are super easy to work with and cook quickly. If you prefer, you can substitute them with grilled chicken strips or even cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
Pasta: I love using penne because its shape holds onto the sauce nicely. You can easily swap it out for any pasta you have on hand, like fusilli, farfalle, or spaghetti.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are key for that classic bruschetta flavor. If fresh tomatoes are out of season, you can use canned diced tomatoes, but be sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid.
Basil: Fresh basil adds amazing flavor! If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon since dried herbs have a stronger flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for this dish. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder will work too, but I recommend using it sparingly, as it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken to perfection can be a bit tricky, but it’s all about timing and temperature. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces, which helps them cook evenly.
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high heat before adding oil; this helps to sear the chicken nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—this will allow the chicken to brown rather than steam.
- Cook for about 6-8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink inside.
- Use a meat thermometer if you have one; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
By following these tips, your chicken will be juicy and delicious in every bite! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
- 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can have your meal ready in about 30-35 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain it well and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season them with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Add the Tomatoes
Now, toss in the diced tomatoes and cook them for about 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly while still holding their shape.
5. Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Gently toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Stir in Fresh Basil
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil, mixing it in to add a burst of flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Your delightful Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is ready to enjoy! Serve it warm, and if you like, top it off with some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.
Enjoy your flavorful Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta!
FAQ for Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked chicken like rotisserie chicken is a great option. Just shred or chop the chicken and add it to the skillet with the tomatoes to warm it through.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Tomatoes?
If fresh tomatoes are not available, you can use canned diced tomatoes—just make sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid in the dish. You can also try using cherry tomatoes, halved, as a fresh alternative!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a splash of water or olive oil when reheating can help to restore some moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this a vegetarian dish by replacing the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even chickpeas for added protein. Keep the rest of the recipe the same, and you’ll still have a delightful meal!
