Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

 Ingredients:

For the Bruschetta Topping:

  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mixture of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)

For the Pasta:

  • 8 ounces (about 2 cups) penne or your favorite pasta
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

For the Bruschetta Topping:

  1. Prepare the Bruschetta Topping:

    • In a bowl, combine the diced cherry tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, minced garlic, finely chopped red onion, balsamic vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
    • Mix well and set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the chicken and pasta.

For the Chicken:

  1. Season and Cook the Chicken:

    • Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and dried Italian seasoning.
    • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
    • Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

For the Pasta:

  1. Cook the Pasta:

    • Cook the penne or your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
    • Drain and set aside.

  2. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

    • In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat.
    • Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
    • Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream.
    • Simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

    • Add the cooked and drained pasta to the creamy garlic sauce.
    • Toss to coat the pasta with the sauce and heat through.

  4. Assemble the Dish:

    • Plate the creamy pasta on serving plates.
    • Top with the sliced chicken breasts.

  5. Serve with Bruschetta Topping:

    • Spoon the prepared bruschetta topping generously over the chicken and pasta.

  6. Garnish and Serve:

    • Optionally, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a wonderful fusion of flavors, combining the freshness of bruschetta with creamy pasta and tender chicken. It's a perfect choice for a comforting and flavorful dinner. Enjoy!

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