Chicken Pasta with Bruschetta (Print-Friendly Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Key Components

01 - 2 medium-sized chicken breasts, no skin or bones
02 - 2 cups chopped cherry tomatoes
03 - 8 oz penne or spaghetti, cooked
04 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
05 - 2 crushed garlic cloves
06 - 2 tbsp olive oil
07 - 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan
08 - 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

→ Flavors & Spices

09 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
10 - 1 tsp dried Italian herb mix
11 - Salt and black pepper, adjusted to your taste

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - In a big pot, boil salty water. Cook the pasta till it’s just firm enough to bite, then set it aside after draining.
02 - Dust each chicken piece with the herb mix, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Gently push the seasoning into the meat for better flavor.
03 - Warm some olive oil in a skillet. Add the chicken, frying on both sides until browned and fully cooked. Let it rest briefly, then cut into slices.
04 - Toss diced tomatoes, crushed garlic, basil, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and a little salt in a bowl. Be gentle when mixing.
05 - Put the pasta back in the skillet with leftover juices from the chicken and toss. Lay sliced chicken on the pasta and top with tomato mixture.
06 - Scatter Parmesan and extra basil on top. Drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze if you like. Serve while it’s warm.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - You can make the tomato topping a couple of hours ahead to save time.
02 - Add extras like spinach or zucchini for more veggies.
03 - Swap in gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.