This Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a fun mix of juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and pasta tossed in a light, tasty sauce. Quick to make, it’s perfect for busy evenings!
What I love most is how colorful it looks on my plate. It’s like a party in there! Plus, you can whip it up in no time, leaving more room for dessert. 🍰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rigatoni or penne works great here, but feel free to use any pasta you have on hand. Fusilli or farfalle could add a fun twist too!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to. If you’re looking for a quicker option, shredded rotisserie chicken can save time!
Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are perfect for their sweetness. If they’re out of season, use canned diced tomatoes for a similar flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for flavor. If you’re out, avocado or vegetable oil can be used instead without compromising the dish.
Basil: Fresh basil elevates the dish. Dried basil can substitute, though the flavor will be milder. Aim for 1 tablespoon dried if fresh isn’t available.
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Chicken?
Cooking the chicken correctly ensures it’s juicy and flavorful. Start with a hot skillet and don’t crowd the pan—work in batches if needed. Here’s how:
- Heat the oil until shimmering, then add the chicken pieces in a single layer.
- Cook without stirring for about 3-4 minutes until nicely browned, then flip.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Letting it brown without moving it too much helps develop flavor. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 2 cups rigatoni or penne pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes or 3 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 15 minutes cooking everything. Quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the pasta and cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes. When it’s ready, drain it and set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Once it’s heated, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until you can smell that delicious garlic aroma. Next, toss in the chopped tomatoes and cook them for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to soften a bit but still keep their shape.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now it’s time to bring the chicken back! Add it to the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic, stirring everything together. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to heat through.
5. Mix in the Pasta:
Gently add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss it all together to combine. Check the seasoning and add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like some heat!
6. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil. Serve the pasta warm, and feel free to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
Enjoy your Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta! It’s a simple, tasty way to brighten up your meal.
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While rigatoni and penne are great choices, you can use any pasta you have on hand such as spaghetti, fusilli, or farfalle. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, you can skip the chicken and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or diced zucchini for added texture. Tofu or chickpeas can also be great protein substitutes!
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the chicken, pasta, and sauce ahead of time. Just store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat everything in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
What Can I Serve on the Side?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A nice green salad with balsamic dressing complements the flavors perfectly!
