This tasty pasta dish is a real treat! With fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil tossed together, it’s light and full of flavor. Add grilled chicken drizzled with balsamic for a delightful twist!
Every bite feels like summer on your plate! I always whip this up for friends and family—it’s easy, colorful, and makes everyone smile. Plus, who can resist that yummy balsamic glaze? 😋
– **Key Ingredients & Substitutions**:
Chicken Breasts:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best, as they are easy to grill and juicy. For a quicker option, use pre-cooked grilled chicken strips from the store or even rotisserie chicken. Tofu or mushrooms can be great plant-based substitutes for a vegetarian version!
Balsamic Vinegar:
This gives the chicken a tangy flavor. If you have trouble finding balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar mixed with a little honey for sweetness. A nice olive oil is also essential for the marinade and cooking.
Cherry Tomatoes:
Fresh cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness. If they are out of season, consider using canned diced tomatoes. Just drain them, and they will add their own flavor! Grape tomatoes also work well.
Fresh Basil:
Basil brings brightness to the dish. If fresh basil isn’t available, dried basil can work in a pinch, but use fewer amounts (about a teaspoon). For a different flavor, try parsley or arugula instead.
Pasta:
I love using rotini or fusilli because they hold the sauce well. Any pasta shape like penne or bowtie would be fantastic too. If you’re gluten-free, there are many pasta options made from lentils or chickpeas available.
Parmesan Cheese:
Parmesan adds a salty, cheesy finish. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option work too!
Red Pepper Flakes:
If you like spice, add red pepper flakes! If not, simply leave them out for a milder dish. Alternatively, try a dash of black pepper or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for depth.
What’s the Best Way to Grill Chicken?
Grilling the chicken adds a delicious smoky flavor. Here’s a quick guide to make sure it turns out juicy and tender:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grate to prevent sticking.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
How to Make the Perfect Tomato Basil Sauce?
Creating a fresh sauce from cooked pasta and tomatoes is simple:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the remaining garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until softened (about 5-7 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, adding the reserved pasta water to help blend everything together. Stir in chopped basil and Parmesan cheese before serving!
– **Title**: Easy Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (1 clove for marinade, 1 for pasta)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extras for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-30 minutes of cooking time, making a total of about 40 minutes. You’ll spend a little time marinating your chicken, cooking pasta, and sautéing your veggies, resulting in a fresh and flavorful meal everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, salt, and black pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the chicken is well-coated and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to an hour for more flavor.
2. Cook the Pasta:
While the chicken is marinating, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Before draining, make sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until it is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
4. Make the Tomato Basil Sauce:
In the same pot used to cook the pasta (or in a large skillet), heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the remaining minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to soften.
5. Combine Everything Together:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss everything together, then slowly add the reserved pasta water, stirring until the sauce is well-combined and coats the pasta nicely. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped basil and Parmesan cheese. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, and add red pepper flakes if desired.
6. Serve:
Divide the pasta among plates, topping each serving with sliced grilled chicken. Garnish with extra basil leaves and sprinkle with more Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your Easy Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken!
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini or fusilli are great choices, you can use any pasta shape you like—penne, farfalle, or even spaghetti work well. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary slightly from shape to shape!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist. If there’s too little sauce, you can also add a bit of extra balsamic vinegar for flavor!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
You bet! Simply omit the chicken and add extra veggies, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. You can also substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh for a protein boost. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What Variations Can I Try?
Feel free to experiment! Add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach, mix in olives or pine nuts for added texture, or swap out the cherry tomatoes for roasted ones for a deeper flavor. You can also play around with herbs like oregano or thyme for a different twist!
