Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Fresh, vibrant, and bursting with Italian-inspired flavor, this Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of hearty comfort food and bright summertime freshness. Imagine tender grilled chicken, juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, garlic, and a drizzle of tangy balsamic—all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta.
This dish comes together fast, tastes restaurant-quality, and makes an amazing weeknight dinner, potluck favorite, or meal-prep option. Light yet satisfying, bold yet simple. If you love bruschetta, this turns it into a full meal you’ll crave again and again!
Ingredients
For the Pasta & Chicken
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2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
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1 pound penne pasta
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1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for cooking chicken if needed)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bruschetta Mix
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2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
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¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
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¼ cup balsamic vinegar
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Optional Add-Ins
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Freshly grated Parmesan
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Extra balsamic glaze for finishing
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Mozzarella pearls or diced fresh mozzarella
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Extra basil leaves
Directions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water.
Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain, but reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later.
2. Prepare the Chicken
If not already grilled, season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a splash of olive oil.
Grill, air fry, or pan-sear until cooked through, then slice into strips.
Set aside.
3. Make the Bruschetta Mix
In a bowl, combine:
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cherry tomatoes
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red onion
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garlic
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basil
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balsamic vinegar
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olive oil
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salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes
Stir well and let sit 5–10 minutes so the flavors marry together.
4. Toss Everything Together
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the cooked pasta.
Pour in the bruschetta mixture and toss gently.
If needed, add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Add the sliced chicken and gently mix until everything is warmed through but the tomatoes stay fresh and juicy.
5. Serve
Top with fresh basil, Parmesan, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Serve warm or room temperature—both are equally delicious!