Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe

Introduction

What if the secret to a perfect weeknight dinner isn’t a complicated recipe, but a brilliant flavor combination you already love? This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta masterfully answers that question by transforming the classic Italian appetizer into a hearty, satisfying main course that comes together in under 30 minutes.

The beauty of this Bruschetta Chicken Pasta lies in its simplicity. Juicy, seasoned chicken is seared to perfection and tossed with al dente pasta, all coated in a vibrant, fresh tomato bruschetta topping. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort, making it an ideal solution for busy evenings.

Ingredients

This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta recipe combines juicy, marinated tomatoes with tender chicken and delicate pasta for a vibrant and satisfying meal.

• 2 cups Roma tomatoes, diced (seeds and pulp removed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for cooking
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 ounces angel hair pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or substitute chicken thighs)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Balsamic glaze (optional)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Context: This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta comes together about 25% faster than similar recipes, making it a perfect choice for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Bruschetta Topping

Combine diced Roma tomatoes, minced garlic, fresh chopped basil, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Let the mixture sit at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the other components.

Step 2 — Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your preferred pasta, such as penne or farfalle, and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining.

Step 3 — Season and Cook the Chicken

Season chicken breasts or thighs generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the juices run clear.

Step 4 — Rest and Slice the Chicken

Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat. Then, slice or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 5 — Combine Pasta and Chicken

Return the empty skillet to medium heat. Add the drained pasta and chopped chicken to the skillet. For a saucier dish, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help everything combine smoothly.

Step 6 — Assemble the Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Gently fold the prepared bruschetta topping into the skillet with the pasta and chicken. Toss everything together just until heated through, being careful not to overcook the fresh tomatoes.

Step 7 — Final Seasoning and Serve

Taste the Bruschetta Chicken Pasta and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutritional Information

Calories	485 kcal
Protein	35 g
Carbohydrates	52 g
Fat	14 g
Fiber	4 g
Sodium	720 mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Use Whole Wheat or Chickpea Pasta — A simple swap to increase fiber and protein content, making this Bruschetta Chicken Pasta more filling.
• Swap Chicken for Grilled Shrimp or White Beans — Offers a lighter, pescatarian protein or a plant-based alternative that still pairs beautifully with the bruschetta flavors.
• Try Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) — A fantastic low-carb and gluten-free option that lets the fresh tomato and basil topping shine.
• Opt for a Low-Sodium Chicken Broth or Fresh Tomatoes — Significantly reduces the sodium content while maintaining a rich, savory base for the sauce.
• Use a Dairy-Free Parmesan Alternative or Nutritional Yeast — Provides the cheesy, umami flavor without dairy, perfect for a vegan Bruschetta Chicken Pasta.
• Incorporate Quinoa or Lentil Pasta — Boosts the protein and nutrient profile for a more powerful, gluten-free meal.
• Add a Handful of Fresh Spinach or Arugula — An easy way to sneak in extra greens, adding color, nutrients, and a slight peppery note.

Serving Suggestions

• For a complete Italian feast, serve this Bruschetta Chicken Pasta alongside a crisp Caesar salad and warm, garlic-infused breadsticks.
• This dish is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner but elegant enough for a weekend gathering with friends.
• Brighten the plate by garnishing with extra fresh basil ribbons and a light drizzle of high-quality balsamic glaze just before serving.
• Serve the Bruschetta Chicken Pasta family-style in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the tomatoes and basil.
• For a lighter meal, consider serving a smaller portion alongside grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
• Pair this pasta with a refreshing, chilled Pinot Grigio or a glass of sparkling water with lemon to complement the fresh flavors.

Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two or a festive potluck, this Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a versatile crowd-pleaser.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold, under-seasoned tomatoes for the bruschetta topping. Fix: Let diced tomatoes sit with salt, garlic, and basil for 15-20 minutes to develop a flavorful, juicy relish.
• Mistake: Overcooking the chicken, making it dry and tough. Fix: Cook chicken just until it reaches 165°F internally and let it rest before slicing to retain its juices.
• Mistake: Adding the fresh bruschetta topping to hot pasta too early. Fix: Toss the tomato mixture in at the very end to keep it bright and fresh, preventing a soggy texture.
• Mistake: Skipping the step of toasting the breadcrumbs or pine nuts for garnish. Fix: Lightly toast them in a dry pan for a minute to add a crucial crunch that contrasts the tender pasta.
• Mistake: Not salting the pasta water sufficiently. Fix: Make the water as salty as the sea; this is your only chance to season the pasta from within.
• Mistake: Drowning the dish in a heavy sauce, masking the bruschetta flavors. Fix: Use a light glaze of the pasta’s starchy cooking water and a good olive oil to coat everything lightly.
• Mistake: Using bland, out-of-season tomatoes. Fix: Opt for ripe cherry or Roma tomatoes, or even quality canned diced tomatoes in winter for the best flavor.
• Mistake: Rinsing the cooked pasta after draining. Fix: Never rinse; the starchy surface helps the light sauce cling to every strand of your Bruschetta Chicken Pasta.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Bruschetta Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

For best results, store the tomato bruschetta topping separately from the pasta if possible to maintain the best texture.

Conclusion

This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a guaranteed hit for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. We hope you love it as much as we do! If you try it, please leave a comment with your review. For another delicious bruschetta-inspired dish, try our Creamy Bruschetta Dip Recipe.

Print

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Print Recipe

An easy weeknight dinner full of fresh ingredients like tomatoes and basil, ready in under 30 minutes.

• Author: Sophie Lane
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x
• Method: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups Roma tomatoes, diced (seeds and pulp removed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for cooking
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 ounces angel hair pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Balsamic glaze (optional)

Instructions

1. Dice Roma tomatoes, removing seeds and pulp. Combine with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, fresh basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Let marinate while preparing the rest.
2. Cook angel hair pasta according to package directions. Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sauté in olive oil over medium heat until cooked through and nicely seared. Remove and keep warm.
4. In the same skillet, add olive oil and the bruschetta mixture with its juices. Warm through while stirring.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the tomato mixture. Add more olive oil if needed.
6. Serve pasta topped with sliced chicken breasts, garnish with fresh basil, and optionally sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and drizzle with balsamic glaze.

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh Roma tomatoes and fresh basil. You can substitute chicken thighs or omit the chicken for a vegetarian version. Adding Parmesan and balsamic glaze enhances the dish with extra richness and sweetness.

Nutrition

• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

FAQs

Can I make this Bruschetta Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead. Cook the pasta and chicken separately, then combine them with the fresh bruschetta topping just before serving. This prevents the pasta from becoming soggy and keeps the flavors vibrant for your Bruschetta Chicken Pasta.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni are ideal for Bruschetta Chicken Pasta. Their ridges and tubes help capture the savory juices and bruschetta topping, ensuring a flavorful bite in every forkful.

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely. For a variation, you can substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp or seasoned chickpeas for a vegetarian option. The fresh tomato and basil bruschetta mixture pairs wonderfully with these alternatives in this versatile pasta dish.