Bruschetta Hähnchen Pasta

Bright cherry tomatoes soften to juicy perfection around golden-seared chicken and al dente pasta, tossed with fresh basil, mozzarella, and a splash of balsamic for a mouthwatering, summery meal. This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta captures the vibrant spirit of Italian-American cuisine, combining the freshness of a classic tomato topping with the comfort of a hearty dinner.

Merken

This dish is an excellent way to showcase seasonal produce. The acidity of the balsamic vinegar cuts through the richness of the chicken and cheese, while the fresh herbs provide an aromatic finish that makes every bite feel like a celebration of summer.

Ingredients

• Pasta & Chicken:
• 12 ounces penne or fusilli pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed
• Aromatics & Vegetables:
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• Oils & Vinegar:
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Herbs & Cheese:
• 8 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
• ½ cup diced fresh mozzarella
• Seasonings & Other:
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup pasta cooking water, reserved

Instructions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ¼ cup of the cooking water, then drain and set pasta aside.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, season both sides of the chicken breasts with ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper.

Step 3

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and sear 5–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Transfer chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into ½-inch pieces.

Step 4

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Reduce heat to medium, then sauté the shallot and garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and translucent, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 5

Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften and release juices. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 6

Return the sliced chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss gently to combine. If the mixture seems dry, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 7

Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the fresh basil, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and diced mozzarella until cheese starts to melt and herbs are evenly distributed.

Step 8

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Transfer to serving bowls or a large platter.

Step 9

Garnish with extra Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, and a few basil leaves. Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the sweetest and juiciest results. It is also crucial to allow the chicken to rest before slicing; this simple step keeps the meat tender and prevents the juices from running out.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To make a vegetarian version of this dish, simply omit the chicken and increase the amount of cheese or add white beans for extra protein. For additional nutrients, you can also toss in a handful of fresh arugula or baby spinach just before serving.

Serviervorschläge

Transfer the pasta to serving bowls or a large platter while the cheese is still soft. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, and a few fresh basil leaves to enhance the presentation and flavor.

Merken

This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is a perfect example of how simple, high-quality ingredients can come together to create a restaurant-quality meal at home. It is a satisfying, colorful, and delicious option for any dinner occasion.

Fragen & Antworten zum Rezept

→ Wie lange sollte das Hähnchen ruhen?

Das Hähnchen sollte nach dem Anbraten mindestens 5 Minuten ruhen, bevor es in Scheiben geschnitten wird. So bleibt es saftig und zart.

→ Kann ich das Gericht vegetarianisch zubereiten?

Ja, lassen Sie das Hähnchen einfach weg und erhöhen Sie die Käsemenge oder fügen Sie weiße Bohnen für pflanzliches Eiweiß hinzu.

→ Warum Pasta-Wasser reservieren?

Das Stärke-haltige Kochwasser bindet die Soße und sorgt für eine cremige Konsistenz, wenn die Mischung zu trocken wirkt.

→ Welche Pasta eignet sich am besten?

Penne oder Fusilli sind ideal, da ihre Formen die Soße gut halten. Kurze Nudeln mit Rippen empfehlen sich für dieses Gericht.

→ Wie lagere ich Reste?

Kühl lagern und innerhalb von 2-3 Tagen verzehren. Erwärmen Sie portionsweise bei mittlerer Hitze, fügen Sie bei Bedarf etwas Wasser oder Öl hinzu.

→ Kann ich die Kirschtomaten ersetzen?

Frische Kirschtomaten sind am besten, aber im Notfall können auch gewürfelte reife Tomaten verwendet werden.