Name: Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe for Quick Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta; 2 chicken breasts, sliced thin; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or vinegar); 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/3 cup burrata or mozzarella (optional); Salt & pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe

Some nights, I just need dinner to feel like a warm hug—comforting, quick, and a little bit fancy. That’s exactly why I turn to Bruschetta Chicken Pasta. It’s my go-to when the clock’s ticking, but I still want something fresh, satisfying, and downright delicious.

Between juggling work, errands, and hungry faces, this Italian-inspired dish swoops in like a weeknight superhero. Juicy chicken, garlic-kissed tomatoes, and balsamic magic all tangled up in pasta—yes, please! Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or impressing last-minute guests, this recipe is a lifesaver that brings the taste of Italy right to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

This dish is everything I crave on a busy weeknight—fast, full of flavor, and downright comforting. From the juicy balsamic chicken to the burst of garlicky tomatoes, it’s a flavor-packed win. It comes together in just 30 minutes, which means less stress and more time at the table with your favorite people. Plus, it’s pretty enough to serve when company pops by unexpectedly!

Ingredients Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Every ingredient in this Bruschetta Chicken Pasta plays a delicious role—no fluff, just flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this Italian-inspired beauty to life. Exact amounts are listed at the bottom of the post and are printable for easy reference.

Bowtie (Farfalle) Pasta: I love the way this shape catches all the saucy goodness. Feel free to use penne or rotini if that’s what you have on hand.
Chicken Breasts: Thinly sliced for quick cooking. Boneless and skinless work best, though thighs could be used for extra richness.
Olive Oil: A pantry staple that adds richness and brings everything together. Use extra virgin if possible for better flavor.
Italian Seasoning: This blend adds instant Mediterranean flair. If you’re out, a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme does the trick.
Cherry Tomatoes: They blister beautifully and bring a sweet, juicy pop. Grape tomatoes are a great backup if needed.
Garlic: Freshly minced is best here—it wakes up the whole dish with its bold aroma and zing.
Balsamic Glaze: This is the magic touch! It adds a tangy-sweet depth. No glaze? Balsamic vinegar works fine, just reduce it a bit in the pan.
Fresh Basil: Fragrant and bright, it’s the finishing touch that makes this a truly fresh basil pasta dish. Don’t skip it if you can help it!
Parmesan Cheese: Salty, nutty, and melty—it ties everything together. Grate it fresh if you can for the best results.
Burrata or Mozzarella (Optional): Creamy and dreamy, this is the cherry on top. Totally optional, but highly recommended if you’re feeling indulgent.
Salt & Pepper: Simple but essential. Season every layer to bring out the best in each bite.

If your pantry’s running low, don’t worry—this skillet chicken and pasta is flexible and forgiving.

How to Make Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Let’s bring this Bruschetta Chicken Pasta to life, step by simple step. This is one of my favorite weeknight chicken dinner recipes because it’s easy, fast, and always a hit. The whole recipe happens in under 30 minutes—and most of it in one skillet. Less mess, more yum!

Step 1 – Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a big pot of salted water—think salty like the sea! Toss in your bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-11 minutes.

Drain it well, but save about half a cup of that starchy pasta water. Trust me, that liquid gold can help loosen the sauce later if needed.

Step 2 – Season and Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season those thinly sliced chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. I like to sprinkle generously—flavor every bite!

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. When it shimmers, add the chicken. Sear each side until golden and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side.

Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate. It’ll rejoin the party in just a bit.

Step 3 – Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same skillet (no need to wash it—hello flavor!), lower the heat to medium. Add a splash more olive oil if needed.

Toss in the minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant and the tomatoes begin to blister and burst—about 5 minutes.

This is where the tomato garlic pasta bowl magic really kicks in. The smell? Unreal.

Step 4 – Add Balsamic and Combine

Now for that sweet-tangy twist! Drizzle in the balsamic glaze and give everything a good stir. It’ll sizzle and coat the tomatoes beautifully.

Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta right back into the skillet. Toss it all together until everything’s coated in that glossy, garlicky goodness.

If it feels a little dry, splash in that reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time.

Step 5 – Finish with Cheese and Basil

Turn off the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan and chopped fresh basil until melty and fragrant.

If you’re using burrata or mozzarella, nestle it on top of the pasta. Let it soften slightly—pure fresh basil pasta dish heaven!

Give it a final drizzle of olive oil and maybe a crack of black pepper. Then serve your balsamic chicken pasta hot, straight from the skillet.

Tips for Success

Slice your chicken thin so it cooks quickly and evenly—no dry bits here!
Don’t skimp on seasoning; every layer should be well-flavored, especially the pasta water.
Use a large skillet to avoid overcrowding—more room means better browning.
Fresh basil and Parmesan make a big difference—add them just before serving for max flavor.
Reserve pasta water! It’s the secret to a silky, restaurant-style sauce.

Equipment Needed

Large Skillet: A non-stick or stainless steel pan works best for searing and sautéing everything in one go.
Pasta Pot: A roomy pot with salted water makes cooking the pasta a breeze.
Chef’s Knife: For slicing chicken and chopping garlic and basil—sharp is key!
Cutting Board: Use one for meat and another for herbs to keep things clean and tidy.
Tongs or Spatula: Handy for flipping chicken and tossing the pasta together.
Colander: To drain pasta while saving that magical pasta water.

Variations

Gluten-Free Friendly: Swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish celiac-safe without sacrificing flavor.
Low-Carb Option: Turn it into a low-carb balsamic chicken pasta by replacing the pasta with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice.
Vegetarian Twist: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or white beans for a hearty tomato garlic pasta bowl that’s still protein-packed.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a diced chili when cooking the garlic for a little heat in every bite.
Creamy Dreamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta for a richer sauce that clings to every noodle.
Extra Veggies: Toss in spinach, arugula, or roasted red peppers for more color and nutrients.
Cheese Lovers Unite: Mix in shredded mozzarella or goat cheese along with the Parmesan for a melty, indulgent finish.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
Serve alongside warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up every last drop of sauce.
A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon makes a lovely drink companion.
Top each plate with extra basil and Parmesan for a pretty, flavor-packed finish.
Serve in shallow bowls for a rustic, bistro-style presentation that feels cozy and inviting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this Bruschetta Chicken Pasta?

A: Absolutely! While I adore the way bowtie pasta hugs all the saucy bites, you can easily swap in penne, rotini, or even spaghetti. I’ve used whole wheat pasta before for extra fiber, and it worked like a charm. Just aim for something that holds up well to the juicy tomatoes and hearty chicken—this Italian chicken pasta recipe is wonderfully flexible.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers of this Italian Chicken Pasta recipe?

A: Leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I like to splash in a little water or olive oil before reheating to bring back that silky texture. Warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying repeat of last night’s magic.

Q: Can I make this into a vegetarian Tomato Garlic Pasta Bowl?

A: Yes, and it’s still packed with flavor! Just skip the chicken and try adding sautéed mushrooms, white beans, or even grilled zucchini. The garlic, tomatoes, and balsamic glaze create a savory base that sings on its own. It becomes a hearty, satisfying tomato garlic pasta bowl that’s perfect for meatless Mondays—or any day, really.

Q: How do I make this into a low-carb Balsamic Chicken Pasta?

A: To enjoy this as a low-carb balsamic chicken pasta, swap the bowtie pasta for spiralized zucchini (zoodles) or roasted spaghetti squash. I’ve even tried it with cauliflower rice, and the flavors still shine through. Just reduce the balsamic glaze slightly so it doesn’t overwhelm the lighter base.

Q: Is this a good weeknight chicken dinner for meal prep?

A: 100% yes! This weeknight chicken dinner is a meal prep superstar. Make a batch on Sunday night, divide it into containers, and you’ve got flavorful lunches or dinners ready to go. It reheats like a dream and tastes even better after the flavors have had time to mingle. Busy week ahead? This recipe’s got your back.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about a dish that feels like a hug at the end of a long day—and this Bruschetta Chicken Pasta delivers that magic every single time. It’s cozy yet vibrant, satisfying yet fresh. The blend of garlic, juicy tomatoes, and balsamic glaze dances beautifully with tender chicken and pasta. Honestly, it’s the kind of meal that makes weeknights feel like a celebration. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just treating yourself, this is one of those recipes that fills your kitchen with love—and your belly with smiles. Trust me, you’ll come back to it again and again.

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Recipe for Quick Dinners