This tasty tomato basil pasta comes together quickly, making dinner a breeze! Fresh tomatoes and aromatic basil dance together, topped with juicy grilled chicken. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used rotini, which holds the sauce well. If you prefer something else, try penne or fusilli. Gluten-free pasta works too if that’s your need!
Chicken: Boneless skinless chicken breasts are easy to grill, but thighs could be a juicier option. You can also substitute with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian take.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds depth to the dish, but if you don’t have it, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be good alternatives, just use them sparingly as they are more acidic.
Cherry Tomatoes: If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, diced regular tomatoes work. When in season, garden-fresh tomatoes enhance flavor even more!
Fresh Basil: Nothing beats fresh basil for aroma and taste! If you’re out, you could use dried basil, but use it sparingly as it is more concentrated.
How Do I Get Flawless Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken perfectly can be a challenge, but with a bit of care, it’s simple. Start with marination; it tenderizes and adds flavor. Here’s how to make it great:
- Marinate for at least 15 minutes in the fridge to infuse flavor, but for more depth, go for 1 hour.
- Grill on medium-high heat to ensure a nice sear without burning it. About 5-7 minutes per side works well.
- Don’t flip the chicken too often. Let it grill undisturbed for those beautiful grill marks.
- Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This keeps it juicy!
Easy Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or your preferred pasta)
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
For the Pasta Base:
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, plus whole leaves for garnish
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meal will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 15 minutes marinating the chicken and bustling through the cooking, followed by a few minutes to grill and combine everything perfectly. An ideal recipe for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and oregano if you’re using it. Add the chicken breasts and make sure they’re well coated. Cover and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes up to 1 hour in the refrigerator. This step builds fantastic flavors!
2. Cook the Pasta:
While the chicken marinates, fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside for later.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. To ensure juiciness, let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
4. Prepare the Pasta Base:
As the chicken is grilling, take a large skillet and warm up 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the halved cherry tomatoes and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until they start to soften and release their juices.
5. Combine:
In the skillet with tomatoes, gently stir in the cooked pasta. Add the thinly sliced fresh basil leaves and the grated Parmesan cheese. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste, and toss together until well combined and heated through.
6. Serve:
Transfer the pasta to a large serving dish or keep it in the skillet for family-style serving. Top the pasta with the sliced balsamic grilled chicken. Garnish with whole fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese if you like!
7. Enjoy:
Serve warm and enjoy every delicious bite of this fresh, vibrant meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
FAQ for Easy Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, while gluten-free pasta is a perfect substitute for those with dietary restrictions. Just follow the cooking instructions specific to the type of pasta you choose.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta and chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. You can add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to rehydrate the pasta if it becomes dry.
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. The pasta can also be cooked ahead of time—just add a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking and refrigerate. Combine everything just before serving for the best results!
What can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch. Just reduce the quantity slightly, as both are more acidic. For a sweet touch, you can add a bit of honey to mimic the sweetness of balsamic vinegar!
