Bruschetta Chicken Pasta (Print Format)

Tender chicken, fresh tomato basil topping, and delicate angel hair pasta combine for a flavorful, quick Italian meal.

# Ingredients:

→ Bruschetta Mixture

01 - 4 Roma tomatoes, diced
02 - 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
03 - 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
04 - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
05 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Pasta

06 - 8 ounces angel hair pasta
07 - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

→ Chicken

08 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
09 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
10 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

11 - Fresh basil leaves for garnish
12 - Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)
13 - Grated Parmesan or torn mozzarella cheese to taste (optional)

# Steps:

01 - In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, torn basil leaves, and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper. Let rest at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
02 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add angel hair pasta and cook for about 4 minutes until al dente. Drain thoroughly and toss immediately with 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil to prevent sticking.
03 - Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to cutting board, tent with foil, and rest for at least 5 minutes.
04 - In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and the bruschetta mixture. Stir gently and heat for 1 to 2 minutes until just warmed through, taking care not to overcook the tomatoes.
05 - Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the bruschetta sauce. Toss gently to coat evenly and warm through with residual heat. Turn off the heat.
06 - Slice rested chicken breasts against the grain into even pieces. Divide pasta among plates or bowls, top with sliced chicken, garnish with fresh basil leaves, drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired, and sprinkle with cheese if using. Serve immediately.

# Tips:

01 - Allow the bruschetta mixture to rest before combining to enhance flavor. Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if necessary. Angel hair pasta cooks very quickly; monitor closely to maintain texture.