Description

A fresh and filling pasta dish made with juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tender chicken, all drizzled with balsamic for added flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

12 ounces Pasta (penne or fusilli) (Sturdy pasta that holds the sauce well.)
1 pound Chicken breast or chicken cutlets (Season simply to complement the bruschetta topping.)
1 cup Fresh tomatoes (Roma or cherry) (Use fresh for the best flavor.)
1/2 cup Fresh basil (Chopped just before mixing.)
2 cloves Garlic (Minced for the bruschetta topping.)
2 tablespoons Balsamic vinegar (Add additional for desired sweetness.)
1 tablespoon Honey or brown sugar (Optional for added sweetness.)
2 tablespoons Olive oil (For cooking the chicken.)
to taste Salt and pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or oregano
1/4 cup Parmesan or mozzarella pearls (Optional for topping.)
1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (Optional for heat.)

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Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

Boil salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions. Save about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Cooking the Chicken

Season chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder if desired.
Cook the chicken in a hot skillet with olive oil until browned and cooked through. Let it rest before slicing.

Preparing the Bruschetta Topping

Mix diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.

Combining Everything

Toss hot pasta with a splash of reserved pasta water, balsamic vinegar, and additional olive oil.
Add sliced chicken and spoon the bruschetta mixture on top.
Finish with parmesan, mozzarella pearls, or red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

Store pasta and chicken together, but keep the tomato basil topping separate until serving for the best freshness. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for about 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner, Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine: Italian