This pasta dish is a delicious mix of tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil, all tossed together for a fun and quick dinner. It’s really colorful and smells amazing!
I love making this on busy nights because it’s so easy. Just cook the pasta, sauté the chicken, and mix it all together. Simple as that—and it always makes me feel like a chef! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using rigatoni or penne for their sturdy texture that holds the sauce well. If you’re in a pinch, you can swap with any short pasta you have on hand, like fusilli or shells. Gluten-free pasta is also a great option if needed!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here, but thighs can add more flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using chickpeas or tofu instead, seasoned well and sautéed until golden.
Tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes give the best flavor, but you can use canned diced tomatoes in a pinch. They’ll work well; just skip the marinating step and toss them in directly with the pasta.
Basil: Fresh basil definitely shines in this dish, but if you don’t have any, dried basil works too—just use about a third of the amount. You could also experiment with fresh parsley or oregano for a different flavor.
Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice salty kick, but if you want to keep it dairy-free, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor too. Feta or mozzarella can also be delicious alternatives!
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right! Always start with even-sized pieces. This helps the chicken cook consistently. When sautéing, let the chicken sit for a while after adding it to the pan. This browning creates flavor.
- Heat oil in the skillet until shimmering. Add chicken pieces in a single layer; don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and some Italian seasoning. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Check for doneness by cutting into a piece; juices should run clear. Remove from heat to avoid overcooking.
Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Protein:
- 8 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Veggies & Flavor:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes or Roma tomatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Seasoning:
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus more for cooking chicken
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
Optional Topping:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes total! You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients and 15-20 minutes to cook everything. A quick dinner that’s ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta (rigatoni or penne) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, pour a drizzle of olive oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Then, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, fresh basil, the remaining Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if you like some heat), olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir this mixture well to combine and let it sit for a few minutes to marinate.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, add the cooked pasta and the chicken pieces to the bowl with the tomato mixture. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the flavorful mix.
5. Serve:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you’d like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. Enjoy your warm and delicious bruschetta chicken pasta!
This dish is so satisfying and bursting with fresh flavors. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
FAQ for Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni and penne are great choices, you can use any short pasta like fusilli or bowties. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using chickpeas or diced tofu instead. You can sauté them the same way as chicken. Additionally, you could use shrimp or even cooked sausage for a different meat option.
How Long Can Leftovers Be Stored?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain the dish’s flavors!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and tomato mixture in advance. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve, and mix everything together for a quick meal!
