This Balsamic Chicken Pasta is a fun and tasty meal! Juicy chicken is cooked with a sweet balsamic glaze, then tossed with pasta and colorful veggies.
You can easily whip this up on a busy weeknight. I love how the tangy balsamic flavor really makes the dish pop—it’s a family favorite for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: I love penne for its grooves that catch the sauce, but you can swap it for any pasta you have on hand, like fusilli or rotini. Gluten-free pasta is a great alternative if needed!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are convenient. You can also use thighs for added flavor, or even leftover rotisserie chicken to save time!
Balsamic Vinegar: This is the star of the dish for its tangy kick. If you don’t have it, red wine vinegar can work in a pinch, but you might miss the sweetness.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet cherry tomatoes add juiciness. If you can’t find them, regular tomatoes, diced and cooked until soft, are a fine alternative.
Fresh Basil: This herb brings freshness to the dish! If fresh isn’t available, dried basil can substitute, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Getting juicy chicken is all about the cooking time! Here’s how to keep it tender:
- Use medium-high heat, which helps sear the outside while cooking the inside through.
- Keep an eye on the chicken and don’t overcook it. About 5-7 minutes usually does the trick, but a meat thermometer can help; aim for 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist while you finish the dish.
These tips will help you create a delicious Balsamic Chicken Pasta that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking!
Balsamic Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Dish:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus some whole leaves for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Balsamic Chicken Pasta takes about 15 minutes of preparation and around 20 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and satisfying meal for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Once it’s bubbling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sear the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, take a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken strips with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and completely cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until you can smell the wonderful aroma. Next, toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they soften and start to blister.
4. Add Balsamic and Combine:
Pour in the balsamic vinegar and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to reduce a bit. Then, return the chicken to the skillet with the balsamic garlic tomato mixture and toss everything together to combine the flavors.
5. Mix in Pasta and Serve:
Add the cooked pasta and chopped basil to the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly, heating the pasta through. Finally, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Plate and Garnish:
Serve your Balsamic Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Enjoy your flavorful Balsamic Chicken Pasta with tender chicken, sweet balsamic-roasted tomatoes, and fresh herbs! It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is great for holding onto the sauce, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the type of pasta you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar as a substitute, but keep in mind that it may be a bit more tart. You might also add a pinch of sugar to replicate some of the sweetness that balsamic brings.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also try adding some chickpeas or white beans for protein!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen up the pasta. You can also microwave it, stirring halfway through for even heating.
