This Balsamic Chicken Pasta is a delightful mix of tender chicken and tasty pasta, all tossed in a tangy balsamic sauce. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor!
The best part? You can whip this up in under 30 minutes! I love it for a busy weeknight dinner, and it’s perfect with a sprinkle of cheese on top. Yum! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I like using rotini because its shape holds onto the sauce nicely. But any spiral pasta works! You can even use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed.
Chicken: Chicken breasts are great for this recipe, but thighs can be juicier and add more flavor. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken fits perfectly too.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes bring sweetness and acidity. If out of season, use canned diced tomatoes instead! They can add a nice sauce-like texture.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is key for flavor! If you don’t have it, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used, though the taste will differ slightly.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to do it just right. First, cut the chicken into even pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Season them well with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Heat oil in your skillet until it’s hot, but not smoking.
- Add chicken and let it cook without stirring for a few minutes. This helps it brown nicely.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate before adding the vegetables. This keeps it juicy and prevents overcooking!
Balsamic Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any spiral pasta)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This Balsamic Chicken Pasta recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30-35 minutes. A quick and tasty dish perfect for any day of the week!
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, season them with salt and pepper, and cook until they are browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. After they’re cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cherry tomatoes. Cook everything together until the mushrooms are tender and the tomatoes soften and burst, which will take around 5 minutes.
4. Add Balsamic Vinegar:
Pour the balsamic vinegar into the skillet with the vegetables and stir well to coat. Let this mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Combine Chicken and Pasta:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing everything together. Then, add the cooked pasta and toss everything until well combined and heated through.
6. Finish Up:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle over the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil. Toss gently, allowing the cheese to melt into the pasta.
7. Serve:
Serve your Balsamic Chicken Pasta immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your delicious and colorful meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini works great, you can use any shape of pasta you prefer, like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just ensure to cook it according to the package instructions for the best texture.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and replace it with your favorite protein, like chickpeas or tofu. You may also want to add extra veggies such as bell peppers or spinach for more flavor and texture!
Can I Prep This Meal Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and pasta in advance and store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them and toss together with the vegetables before serving. However, it’s best to add the fresh basil and cheese right before serving to keep them fresh.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to avoid drying it out. You can also add a splash of water or extra balsamic vinegar for moisture!