Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

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Juicy grilled chicken, blistered cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a garlic-kissed olive oil drizzle—Bruschetta Chicken Pasta brings all the classic flavors of an Italian antipasto into a hearty bowl of comfort. The smoky sear of the chicken pairs perfectly with the sweet burst of tomatoes and the subtle heat of cracked pepper, all folded into tender pasta.

This dish strikes a beautiful balance: it’s indulgent without being heavy, fresh yet filling. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or a flavorful date-night meal, this pasta recipe hits the sweet spot between rustic and elegant.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

For Bruschetta Chicken Pasta, choose pasta that can hold onto the juices and olive oil. Fusilli, gemelli, or rotini all work well thanks to their twists and curves. If you’re after a classic presentation, penne is another good option. The goal is to ensure each bite scoops up the garlic oil, tomato juices, and bits of basil.

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Ingredients for the Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

• Chicken breast – Lean, protein-rich, and perfect for marinating and grilling. It’s the meaty centerpiece that anchors the freshness of the dish.
• Cherry tomatoes – Their natural sweetness intensifies as they blister in the pan. These little gems provide the burst that makes bruschetta so distinctive.
• Fresh basil – Essential for its herbaceous, peppery notes that elevate the entire dish.
• Garlic – Sautéed in olive oil to create a simple, fragrant base.
• Olive oil – Acts as both marinade and sauce, binding the flavors with richness.
• Parmesan cheese – A final dusting adds a savory edge and subtle creaminess.
• Salt and pepper – Basics that make each ingredient shine.
• Pasta (gemelli or rotini) – Their ridges catch all the tomato juices and oil beautifully.

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How To Make the Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Marinate and Grill the Chicken

Start by seasoning chicken breasts with salt, pepper, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of Italian herbs if desired. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes. Grill or sear the chicken on a hot skillet over medium-high heat for about 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Let rest before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil salted water and cook your pasta (gemelli, rotini, or penne) according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a half cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Prepare the Bruschetta Topping

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and sauté until blistered and softened, around 5–7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Topping

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes. Stir to coat the pasta with the garlic oil and tomato juices. If the mixture looks dry, splash in a bit of the reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Plate the pasta and top it with sliced grilled chicken. Finish with fresh torn basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.

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Serving and Storing Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

This dish is best served hot, straight off the stove, when the tomatoes are juicy and the basil still fragrant. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can also bring a sweet contrast to the savory elements.

To store, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely. Grilled shrimp or even pan-seared tofu can be excellent substitutes, depending on your preference.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken and load up on more blistered cherry tomatoes or add sautéed mushrooms for depth.

What kind of Parmesan works best?

A wedge of Parmigiano-Reggiano grated fresh offers the best flavor, but pre-grated varieties are convenient and still tasty.

How can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic oil when sautéing to infuse a gentle heat throughout the dish.

Can I serve this cold like a pasta salad?

It’s meant to be warm, but you can enjoy leftovers chilled for a refreshing lunch-style pasta. Just expect a firmer texture from the pasta and chicken.

Is this good for meal prep?

Yes, it holds up well for a couple of days, especially if stored separately from the basil and cheese to maintain freshness.

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Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

You might also like the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, which adds a bold spice twist and a velvety sauce. Or explore the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti for a cheesy, oven-baked alternative.

For a lighter take, the Chicken Mushroom Stroganoff layers earthy tones with a creamy finish. And if you want another flavor-packed skillet meal, the One Skillet Smoky Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta delivers big on both comfort and convenience.

Also worth trying: One Pot Spicy BBQ Chicken Cheeseburger Pasta—a playful fusion for weeknight dinners.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your chicken pasta board for later—just hit the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you grill the chicken or bake it? Did you try it with a splash of balsamic glaze? Leave a comment below and let me know how you made it your own.

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