Bruschetta Chicken Pasta: A Fresh & Flavorful Italian Dinner

If you love the vibrant flavors of bruschetta and crave a hearty pasta dish, this Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is the perfect meal! Juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and tangy balsamic come together in this quick, 30-minute recipe that tastes like it’s straight from an Italian trattoria.

This dish is protein-packed, family-friendly, and customizable—whether you want to add extra veggies, cheese, or a spicy kick. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Ready in 30 minutes – Perfect for busy weeknights
✔ Bursting with fresh flavors – Sweet tomatoes, garlic, and basil
✔ High-protein & balanced – Great for meal prep
✔ Crowd-pleasing – Kids and adults love it!

Ingredients

Serves 4

For the Bruschetta Topping

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or diced Roma tomatoes)

• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (or vinegar)

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Chicken & Pasta

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced

• 8 oz penne pasta (or fusilli, farfalle)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (+ extra for garnish)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins

• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes (for extra richness)

• ½ cup fresh mozzarella pearls (creamy finish)

• 1 tbsp capers (briny twist)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Boil penne in salted water until al dente (10-12 mins).

• Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.

2. Make the Bruschetta Topping

• In a bowl, mix tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, balsamic, salt & pepper. Let sit 10 mins.

3. Cook the Chicken

• Heat olive oil in a skillet.

• Add chicken, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

• Cook 5-6 mins until golden and cooked through. Remove from pan.

4. Combine Everything

• In the same skillet, add the bruschetta mix and cook 2-3 mins until tomatoes soften.

• Return chicken, add pasta, and toss.

• Stir in Parmesan and a splash of pasta water if needed.

5. Serve & Garnish

• Top with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

• Add mozzarella pearls for creaminess (optional).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Tips for the Best Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

🔹 Use ripe, juicy tomatoes – They make the bruschetta topping pop!
🔹 Don’t skip the balsamic glaze – It adds a sweet-tangy depth.
🔹 Try grilling the chicken – Adds a smoky flavor.
🔹 Make it ahead – Flavors meld beautifully when stored overnight.

Common Questions

Can I use a different protein?

Yes! Shrimp, grilled salmon, or even tofu work great.

How long do leftovers last?

Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are GF.

Final Thoughts

This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a restaurant-worthy dish that’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive for guests. The fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and Parmesan create a burst of flavor in every bite!

Want more easy Italian-inspired recipes? Try our [Caprese Stuffed Chicken] or [Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta] next!

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