Name: Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound (500g) thin spaghetti pasta, dry weight; 1 pound (500g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, 2 large breasts; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons minced garlic; 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped (about 1/3 of a red onion); 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, adjust to your tastes; 8 roma tomatoes, diced; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more to serve; 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil or parsley; Balsamic glaze to serve (optional) — I use store-bought

Description

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Salad is a culinary celebration of texture and flavor, capturing the essence of summer in every bite. This dish combines the juiciness of ripe tomatoes, the savory depth of herbed chicken, and the al dente satisfaction of pasta, all harmoniously brought together with a hint of balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of parmesan.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta Salad:
1 pound (500g) thin spaghetti pasta, dry weight
1 pound (500g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, 2 large breasts
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped (about 1/3 of a red onion)
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, adjust to your tastes
8 roma tomatoes, diced
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more to serve
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil or parsley
Balsamic glaze to serve (optional) — I use store-bought

Instructions

Prepare Pasta: Cook pasta as per package directions; drain and rinse in cold water. Transfer to a large bowl; set aside.

Cook Chicken: Season chicken with basil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 teaspoon oil in a grill pan/skillet and sear chicken breasts over medium-high heat until browned on both sides and cooked through (about 6 minutes each side). Remove, set aside to rest.

Tomato Mixture: In the same pan, add remaining olive oil. Sauté garlic and red onion until fragrant. Turn off heat, add tomatoes, tossing lightly to warm through. Add to the pasta.

Combine: Mix in balsamic vinegar, parmesan, and basil/parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Slice chicken, add to pasta, and toss well.

Serve: Top with extra parmesan, drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately or chill up to an hour before serving.

Storage:

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Best served fresh.
Tips:

Adjust balsamic vinegar and glaze according to taste.
Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or a refreshing meal.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 450