This dish is all about fresh flavors! Juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil come together with pasta, topped with tasty balsamic grilled chicken. It’s simple and oh-so-good!
Who doesn’t love a meal that looks fancy but is quick to whip up? I love making extra chicken for salads the next day—you know, to feel healthy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken for ease and quick cooking. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey breasts work well, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient gives the chicken a tangy flavor. If you don’t have balsamic, try red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even lemon juice for a different twist.
Pasta: I used rotini for its ability to hold sauce, but any pasta like penne, fusilli, or spaghetti will work great. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta are also good choices!
Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and juicy flavor. If you can’t find them, grape tomatoes or even diced canned tomatoes can be used as substitutes. Just be cautious about the moisture they add.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil brings an aroma that’s hard to beat. If you don’t have it, you can use dried basil, but reduce the amount as dried herbs are more potent.
Why is Proper Marination Important?
Marinating the chicken enhances its flavor and tenderness. The balsamic vinegar acts as a tenderizer, letting the chicken absorb all those tasty herbs and spices.
- Try to marinate for 1 hour if you can; it makes a noticeable difference.
- Don’t forget to reserve some marinade for brushing on the chicken while grilling!
How Do You Achieve a Creamy Pasta Sauce?
For a creamy pasta without actual cream, you can use the reserved pasta water. This starchy water helps create a sauce that clings to each piece of pasta.
- After draining your pasta, save about 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
- Gradually add it to the sautéed tomatoes and toss everything together until you reach your desired consistency.
- Finish by adding Parmesan cheese to create a creamy texture.
Enjoy making this easy dish that’s bursting with flavors!
Easy Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for grilling)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano and thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or your favorite shaped pasta)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped (plus some whole leaves for garnish)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, for added heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 30-45 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 20 minutes marinating the chicken (you can do this while boiling the pasta) and then another 15-20 minutes cooking everything together. Quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 20 minutes and up to 1 hour in the fridge to really soak up the flavors.
2. Cook the Pasta:
While the chicken marinates, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining it!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly brush with olive oil. Take the chicken out of the marinade and grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks. After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly.
4. Prepare the Pasta Sauce:
In the same pan used for the chicken, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften and start to release their juices. Add the drained pasta, chopped basil, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water bit by bit to help create a light sauce that coats the pasta. Season with additional salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
5. Assemble the Dish:
On a plate, serve the tomato basil pasta and top it generously with the sliced balsamic grilled chicken. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a stunning presentation.
6. Serve Warm:
Enjoy this fresh, flavorful dinner with family or friends! It’s a perfect way to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.
This recipe showcases the beautiful combination of basil and tomato, along with the tangy sweetness of the marinated grilled chicken—simple, fresh, and absolutely satisfying!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will work just fine and add a bit more richness due to their higher fat content. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may need a few extra minutes on the grill.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or hearty vegetables like zucchini or eggplant. You will still marinate them with the balsamic mixture for added flavor before grilling!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Use Dried Tomatoes Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use sun-dried tomatoes if fresh tomatoes aren’t available. Just chop them finely and add them in during the pasta sauce preparation step. You may want to adjust the amount of olive oil or pasta water to compensate for the extra richness they add.
