Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe

Bruschetta chicken pasta combines the bright, fresh flavors of Italian bruschetta with the heartiness of a creamy pasta dish. Juicy grilled chicken, ripe tomatoes, garlic, and basil come together for a deliciously simple meal. Every bite bursts with Mediterranean freshness, making it a weeknight favorite or a show-stopping dinner for guests.

Ingredients List

– 12 oz spaghetti or penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 4 ripe Roma tomatoes, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 tablespoon butter (optional for creaminess)
– Extra basil or balsamic glaze for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package directions. Drain, reserve ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside. Drizzle a touch of olive oil over the pasta to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet, rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.

Step 3: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add diced tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir and cook for 3–4 minutes until the tomatoes release their juices.

Step 4: Reduce heat to medium-low and add butter to create a light sauce. Stir in chopped basil and let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes.

Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the tomato mixture. If the sauce feels too thick, add a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

Step 6: Add sliced chicken back to the skillet. Sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses over the top, stirring gently until melted and combined.

Step 7: Serve warm, topped with extra basil, Parmesan, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for restaurant-quality flavor.

Cook Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings

Serves 4

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

Calories: 420
Carbs: 42g
Protein: 36g
Fat: 12g

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.
For freezing, store without the cheese topping and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Pairings/Suggestions

This bruschetta chicken pasta pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad. For a lighter option, try serving it with steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus. Add a glass of chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio for the perfect Italian-inspired dinner.

Seasonal Relevance

Ideal for spring and summer when tomatoes and basil are at their peak freshness. It’s also great year-round for anyone craving bright, zesty flavors that remind you of Mediterranean sunshine.

Health Benefits

Bruschetta chicken pasta offers a balance of protein, healthy fats, and fresh produce. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants such as lycopene, which supports heart health and skin vitality. Garlic and basil provide natural anti-inflammatory benefits, while lean chicken adds muscle-building protein. Using olive oil instead of heavy cream keeps the dish light without compromising flavor. Opting for whole wheat pasta can also add extra fiber and nutrients to your meal.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Fresh, bright, and flavorful	Best served fresh, not ideal for long storage
Easy weeknight meal	May require extra tomatoes for stronger flavor
Family-friendly and customizable	Cheese can make it slightly heavier
Healthy ingredients with minimal oil	Needs ripe, quality tomatoes for best taste

Conclusion

This bruschetta chicken pasta recipe is the perfect harmony of freshness and comfort. With juicy chicken, tangy balsamic tomatoes, and fragrant basil, every forkful feels like a burst of summer. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your home kitchen.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting friends for dinner, this recipe delivers satisfying Italian charm in under 40 minutes. Light, vibrant, and full of flavor — it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of Roma tomatoes?
Yes, cherry or grape tomatoes work wonderfully and add a slightly sweeter flavor to the sauce.

Q2: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta made from rice, lentils, or chickpeas, and ensure your balsamic vinegar is gluten-free certified.

Q3: Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Absolutely! Sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini complement the dish beautifully and add more nutrition.

Q4: What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
You can use provolone, feta, or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

Q5: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and tomato sauce a day in advance. Combine everything and heat just before serving for the freshest taste.