I have to admit, the first time I made this Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe, I couldn’t stop smiling at how simple yet flavorful it was.

The combination of juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and pasta tossed in a garlicky sauce is pure comfort food. I love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. You can also enjoy similar flavors in the Cod Provencal with Tomatoes, Capers, and Olives Recipe. Plus, it feels fancy enough to impress guests without any stress. After making it a few times, I realized this recipe is a keeper for my regular rotation.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this dish truly shine. I always focus on fresh ingredients because they make a huge difference in taste.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – I like to pound them slightly for even cooking.
Salt and pepper – season generously to enhance the chicken’s flavor.
2 tablespoons olive oil – adds richness and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
4 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic is far more aromatic than pre-minced.
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved – fresh and ripe tomatoes burst with sweetness; avoid canned for this recipe.
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar – adds depth and balances the tomatoes’ acidity.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme works best.
8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini) – cook al dente; it holds the sauce better.
1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped – fresh herbs make all the difference; dried won’t give the same punch.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – grate it fresh for the best flavor.

Note: several servings

Variations

I love experimenting with variations to fit dietary needs or simply mix things up:

Dairy-free: Swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta for an allergy-friendly version.
Extra flavor: Add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet, tangy punch. You might also enjoy something hearty like the Italian Sausage Orzo Soup Recipe for a cozy dinner option.
Protein swap: Try shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.

Cooking Time

Here’s a quick overview so you know exactly what to expect:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Equipment You Need

Using the right tools makes this recipe effortless:

Large skillet – for searing chicken and sautéing vegetables.
Medium pot – to cook pasta evenly.
Knife and cutting board – for chopping tomatoes, garlic, and basil.
Wooden spoon or spatula – to stir the sauce without scratching your pan.
Colander – to drain the pasta efficiently.

How to Make Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe

Prepare the Chicken

Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 4–5 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.

Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and Italian seasoning, stirring occasionally until tomatoes soften and release their juices.

Cook the Pasta

While the tomatoes simmer, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce later if needed.

Combine Everything

Slice the rested chicken into strips. Add the cooked pasta to the tomato mixture and toss everything together. Add sliced chicken on top and mix in fresh basil for a bright, herby flavor. Sprinkle grated Parmesan before serving.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

From my experience, a few tweaks can elevate this dish:

I always use ripe cherry tomatoes; they give a sweeter, juicier flavor.
Let the chicken rest after cooking—it stays tender and juicy.
If the sauce seems dry, I add a splash of reserved pasta water for the perfect consistency.
I chop basil last minute to keep its fresh aroma intact.
A drizzle of good-quality olive oil at the end really ties everything together.

How to Serve Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe

Presentation matters, and I enjoy making this dish visually appealing. Serve on a large white plate for contrast. Garnish with extra basil leaves and a few shavings of Parmesan. Pair with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A light drizzle of balsamic reduction over the top adds an elegant touch.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough breakdown per serving:

Calories: 450 kcal – a satisfying yet not overly heavy meal.
Protein: 30 g – Chicken and pasta provide plenty of protein.
Carbohydrates: 45 g – pasta gives you energy to power through the day.
Fat: 15 g – mostly from olive oil and cheese, giving richness without heaviness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps fresh for up to 3 days without losing flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked pasta and chicken separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing fresh basil—it loses its flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to maintain sauce consistency.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I always get excited sharing why this bruschetta chicken pasta is such a hit:

Quick and easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Fresh flavors: Juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and garlic-packed sauce are irresistible.
Versatile: Swap proteins, make it gluten-free, or go dairy-free.
Crowd-pleaser: Guests always ask for seconds—it’s that good.
Customizable: Adjust seasoning, cheese, or veggies to suit your taste.

Ash Tyrrell