Description
Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Salad combines Italian zest with summer freshness. Juicy grilled chicken, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil mingle over pasta, delivering a light yet satisfying meal perfect for casual gatherings or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 1 pound (500 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup additional parmesan cheese (for serving)
Herbs and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil or parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta and Produce:
- 1 pound (500 g) thin spaghetti pasta
- 8 roma tomatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Balsamic glaze (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and rinse with cold water to stop cooking process, then transfer to a spacious mixing bowl.
- Create a robust seasoning blend using dried basil, oregano, garlic powder, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Coat chicken breasts evenly with this aromatic mixture.
- Heat of olive oil in a grill pan or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place seasoned chicken and sear for approximately 6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from heat and allow to rest for 5-7 minutes to retain moisture. Once cooled slightly, slice into thin, uniform strips.
- In the same pan, add remaining olive oil and quickly sauté minced garlic and diced red onion until they become fragrant and slightly translucent, approximately 45-60 seconds.
- Gently fold fresh diced tomatoes into the pan, warming them briefly to release their natural juices and integrate flavors.
- Combine warm tomato mixture with prepared pasta, ensuring even distribution.
- Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the pasta, then sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Incorporate sliced chicken into the pasta salad, gently tossing to blend all components.
- For optimal flavor development, chill the salad for 30-60 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parmesan and a light balsamic glaze when ready to serve.
Notes
- Marinate chicken briefly with herbs for maximum flavor infusion and tender meat texture.
- Ensure pasta is completely cooled to prevent clumping and maintain ideal salad consistency.
- Searing chicken at high temperature locks in juices and creates delicious caramelized exterior.
- Fresh tomatoes and herbs are crucial for bright, summery taste profile of this dish.
- Resting chicken after cooking allows juices to redistribute, resulting in more succulent meat slices.
- Can prepare ahead and refrigerate for up to one hour, making it perfect for meal prep or potluck gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 415 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg