Introduction
Bring the flavors of Italian bruschetta to your dinner table with this delightful Bruschetta Chicken Pasta. Grilled chicken, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil are combined with penne pasta for a colorful and flavorful dish. Perfect for a comforting yet vibrant meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled and sliced (approx. 500g)
450g penne pasta
300g cherry tomatoes, halved
60g red onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced (approx. 9g)
15g fresh basil, chopped
60ml balsamic vinegar
80ml olive oil
50g grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the bruschetta topping. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, red onion, garlic, basil, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. In a large skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the grilled and sliced chicken breasts to the skillet and reheat gently until warm.
4. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the chicken. Pour the bruschetta mixture over the pasta and chicken, and gently toss to combine all ingredients evenly.
5. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful Bruschetta Chicken Pasta.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, ensuring a perfect bite. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. This will form the hearty base of your dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Bruschetta Mixture
While the pasta is cooking, take a large bowl and combine the halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stir the mixture well to marry the flavors, and let it sit for about 10 minutes. The aroma will be delightful, and the colors will brighten your kitchen.
Step 3: Reheat the Chicken
In a large skillet, warm a small drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the grilled and sliced chicken breasts to the pan. Gently reheat them until they are warmed through, releasing their savory juices into the air.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Once the chicken is warmed, add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Pour the bruschetta mixture over the pasta and chicken. With gentle hands, toss everything together, making sure the pasta and chicken are well-coated with the vibrant dressing. The blend of fresh ingredients will create a mouthwatering scent.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle a generous layer of grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Taste and, if necessary, adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Serve your Bruschetta Chicken Pasta warm, and delight in the vibrant colors and fresh flavors. Each bite is a celebration of Italian cuisine that is sure to impress.
Notes
Tip for Cooking Pasta
Always remember to salt your pasta water; it should taste like the ocean to help flavor the pasta itself.
Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes is key to achieving that authentic bruschetta taste.
Grilling Chicken
For added flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before grilling.
Customization Options
Feel free to add extra vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach to the bruschetta mixture for additional nutrition and color.
Make Ahead
You can prepare the bruschetta mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just toss it with the pasta and chicken when you’re ready to serve for a quick meal.
Cook techniques
Grilling Chicken
Grilling chicken breasts adds a smoky flavor and helps to keep the meat tender and juicy. Ensure the grill is preheated and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
Cooking Pasta
To achieve perfectly cooked penne pasta, boil it in salted water for the time specified on the package until it reaches an al dente texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, then drain and set aside.
Preparing Bruschetta Topping
Combine fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, red onion, garlic, and basil in a bowl. Add balsamic vinegar and olive oil to enhance the flavors. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes for the flavors to meld together.
Sauteing Ingredients
Using a skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat before adding ingredients. This method is ideal for gently warming the sliced grilled chicken, ensuring it remains moist.
Tossing Ingredients
After combining the pasta, chicken, and bruschetta mixture, gently toss all ingredients to ensure even distribution. This technique helps to integrate the flavors and makes for a cohesive dish.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute penne pasta with other types such as fusilli, farfalle, or spaghetti based on your preference.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the grilled chicken with grilled vegetables or toasted chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian option.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and double-check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
What can I serve with Bruschetta Chicken Pasta?
This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a vibrant and comforting dish that brings together the fresh flavors of Italian cuisine in a delightful way. With its combination of grilled chicken, ripe cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil, this recipe not only appeals to the taste buds but also makes for a visually appealing plate. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
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