Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to indulge in a comforting yet healthy Italian-inspired dish that warms the heart and nourishes the body? Let’s dive into Healthy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta, a wholesome recipe that blends juicy grilled chicken, fresh tomatoes, garlic, and aromatic herbs into a delightful bowl of pasta. 🍅🌿
This recipe is rooted in the rustic Italian tradition of bruschetta—an appetizer made with crusty bread rubbed with garlic, topped with fresh tomatoes, olive oil, and basil. Here, we’re transforming that much-loved topping into a pasta dish with lean protein and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. The chicken is perfectly seasoned and pan-seared, while the pasta gets coated in a light, fresh tomato-basil sauce that bursts with flavor in every bite.
Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also nutritious. Rich in lean protein, healthy fats, and vitamins, it’s a guilt-free meal that you can prepare in under 40 minutes. Perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or even when you want to impress guests with something wholesome yet elegant. So, tie on your apron, grab your fresh basil, and let’s bring this Tuscan-inspired magic to your table! ✨
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Bruschetta Topping:
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 10 oz whole wheat pasta (penne or spaghetti works well)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Extra fresh basil for garnish 🌿
Step-by-Step Directions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry. Rub them with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F/74°C). Remove, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips. 🍗 - Make the Bruschetta Topping:
In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, fresh basil, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it sit for 10 minutes to marinate. This allows the flavors to deepen. 🍅 - Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. - Bring It All Together:
Toss the hot pasta with the fresh bruschetta topping. If the mixture feels dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. - Plate and Serve:
Arrange pasta on plates, top with sliced chicken, sprinkle with Parmesan, and garnish with extra fresh basil. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor! 🌟
Nutritional Information:
⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 20 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 35 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~420 kcal
🍽️ Servings: 4
#HealthyCooking #BruschettaChicken #ItalianFlavors #NutritiousMeals #PastaLovers
Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️
