Easy Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here. For a quicker option, you can use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken—just add it at the end to warm it through.

Balsamic Vinegar: This adds wonderful flavor. If you don’t have it, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch, though they will change the taste a bit.

Pasta: Rotini is great as it holds the sauce well. If you’re gluten-free, brown rice pasta or quinoa pasta are excellent substitutes. Just cook according to package directions.

Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes burst with flavor! If unavailable, canned diced tomatoes can be used. Just drain them a bit first to avoid excess liquid.

Fresh Basil: Basil is key for a fresh taste. If you can’t find fresh basil, dried basil will work—just use about a third of the amount.

How Do You Achieve Perfectly Grilled Chicken?

Grilling chicken can be simple if you follow a few key steps. Marinating the chicken helps it stay juicy and adds flavor. Make sure your grill is pre-heated to the right temperature—medium-high is best. Here’s how to get it just right:

• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; it should read 165°F (74°C).
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps keep the juices inside!
• Slice against the grain for tender bites.

Enjoy making this flavorful dish with these helpful tips!

How to Make Easy Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for grilling
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces rotini pasta (or any pasta you like)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus additional whole leaves for garnish)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe will take about 30 minutes of active cooking time, plus an additional 30 minutes to 2 hours for marinating the chicken. Overall, plan for around 1 to 2 hours to enjoy this delicious meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Cover or seal and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, try to let it sit for 1-2 hours.

2. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini (or your chosen pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Grill the Chicken:

Preheat a grill pan or an outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grill surface with olive oil to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill it for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken has a nice char. Once done, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.

4. Prepare the Pasta Base:

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and sauté them just until they start to soften, around 2-3 minutes.

5. Combine Pasta:

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes. Mix in the chopped basil and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together gently over the heat to warm it through. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.

6. Serve:

Slice the grilled chicken breasts into strips and arrange them over the pasta. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a lovely presentation.

7. Optional:

For extra flavor, you can drizzle a little more balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze over the chicken right before serving!

Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Easy Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken—perfect for a delightful dinner!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini works well here, feel free to use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust cooking times according to the package directions.

How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?

For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, allowing it to marinate for 1-2 hours in the refrigerator is even better, as it enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of olive oil if needed to keep everything moist.

Can I Add Vegetables to the Pasta?

Yes, definitely! Feel free to toss in other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers while sautéing the tomatoes. This will add even more flavor and nutrition to the dish!