This easy tomato basil pasta is a perfect blend of fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and al dente pasta. Top it off with juicy balsamic grilled chicken for a dish everyone will love!
I mean, who can resist a plate of pasta that smells like Italy? It’s a quick meal that feels fancy and tastes amazing! I often whip it up for busy weeknights and it always hits the spot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish as they grill nicely. If you prefer, you can substitute with thighs for a juicier option, or even use tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a rich flavor to chicken. If you’re out, apple cider vinegar works in a pinch, or you can try a mix of red wine vinegar and a touch of honey for sweetness.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a sweet burst to the dish. You can use any fresh tomatoes chop them into smaller pieces, or canned diced tomatoes if fresh aren’t available; just drain the excess liquid.
Pasta: I love using rotini because it holds sauce well. You can easily swap it for any pasta shape you have on hand, like penne or spaghetti!
How Do You Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but the marinade helps keep it juicy and flavorful. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes, but longer is better.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to avoid sticking.
- Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest after grilling for about 5 minutes; this keeps the juices locked in!
With these tips, your chicken will be perfectly juicy and delicious every time! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Balsamic Grilled Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Tomato Basil Pasta:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of active cooking time, but if you include marinating the chicken, add an additional 30 minutes. So, about 1 hour total to have a delicious meal on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, making sure they’re well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours if you want more flavor!
2. Cook the Pasta:
While the chicken marinates, fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s nice and al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Take your chicken out of the marinade and place it on the grill. Grill each side for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and its internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
4. Prepare the Tomato Basil Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook them until they soften and start to burst, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Season with a little salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well coated in the delicious tomato sauce. Add in the chopped basil leaves and the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until everything is nicely mixed.
6. Serve:
Now it’s time to enjoy! Spoon the tomato basil pasta onto plates and top each with slices of the balsamic grilled chicken. Garnish with extra fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top. Dive in and savor every bite!
Enjoy your flavorful, comforting Easy Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding the sauce, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. You may need to add a splash of water or olive oil to keep the pasta from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply skip the chicken and replace it with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant. You can also use a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, marinated in the same balsamic mixture for added flavor.
What If I Don’t Have Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar mixed with a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness. Apple cider vinegar can also work as an alternative.
