– **Title**: Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
– **Ingredients**:
– 8 ounces penne pasta
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Optional: additional fresh basil for garnish
– **Instructions**:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing it into strips.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
6. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and chopped basil, cooking for another minute.
7. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and add the cooked penne pasta. Toss everything together to combine and heat through.
8. Remove from heat and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the skillet for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts.
9. Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This shape is great for catching all the flavors in the sauce. If you prefer, you could swap it for rotini or fusilli, which also hold onto the sauce well.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Chicken thighs are a juicy alternative if you like darker meat. You can also use tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option that still offers protein.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are perfect for their sweetness and juicy burst. If they’re out of season, opt for canned diced tomatoes instead. They’ll work well too!
Basil: Fresh basil gives a fragrant touch, but if you can’t find it, dried basil can replace it. Just use half the amount since dried is more potent.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a great tang. You can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if needed, but adjust to taste as they have different flavors.
How Do You Ensure Your Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken breasts well can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it! First, make sure your skillet is preheated to medium heat. This helps with even cooking.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts to enhance flavor.
- Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving it. This helps create a nice golden crust.
- Flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check; it should read 165°F for safety.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
How to Make Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Chicken:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Flavorings:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, diced (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes in total: around 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm but cooked through). When it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. While the oil is heating up, season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Once the oil is ready, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and golden brown. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet you used for the chicken, add the diced red onion and cherry tomatoes. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the tomatoes start to blister. Then, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, stirring constantly until you can smell its lovely aroma!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Next, pour in the balsamic vinegar and reduce the heat to low. Let everything simmer for a couple of minutes to blend the flavors. Now, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet along with the chopped basil and mozzarella cheese (if you’re using it). Toss everything together gently until everything is well-coated and heated through. It should look colorful and appetizing!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the resting chicken and arrange it beautifully on top of the pasta. Garnish with extra fresh basil and chopped parsley for a bright finish. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Bruschetta Chicken Pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is a great choice, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as fusilli, rotini, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose to ensure it cooks perfectly!
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar on hand, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Adding a pinch of sugar can help mimic the sweetness of balsamic. Just mix it in after adding the vinegar, tasting as you go to get the right balance!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover Bruschetta Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or water if it seems dry.
