Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly combines fresh flavors and simple preparation. Ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe shines with its vibrant ingredients and satisfying taste. The combination of succulent balsamic chicken and pasta tossed in a light tomato basil sauce makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

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Why You’ll Love This Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken

This recipe offers numerous benefits that make it a must-try.

• Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this meal on the table in no time.
• Fresh Flavors: The blend of cherry tomatoes and basil provides a burst of freshness that complements the grilled chicken.
• Versatile Option: Perfect for summer cookouts or cozy winter dinners, it’s suitable for any season.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is both nutritious and delicious.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary preferences, including gluten-free options.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools will make preparing your Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet or frying pan
• Freezer bag (for marinating)
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Perfect for achieving that smoky flavor on the balsamic chicken.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures even cooking of the pasta for the best texture.
• Skillet or frying pan: Ideal for sautéing garlic and tomatoes to bring out their flavors.

Ingredients

Tomato basil pasta topped with balsamic chicken is light, fresh, and easy to make!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 23 minutes
Additional Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 38 minutes
Course: Chicken + Poultry, Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Danae Halliday

For Balsamic Grilled Chicken

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon pesto
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Pinch red pepper flakes
• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

For Tomato Basil Pasta

• 12 ounces uncooked pasta, gluten-free if needed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
• 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
• Pinch of red pepper flakes
• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
• Balsamic glaze and extra chopped basil for garnish (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Place the chicken breasts in a freezer bag along with all the marinade ingredients.
2. Seal the bag while pressing out as much air as possible. Massage the marinade into the chicken.
3. Let the chicken marinate for at least an hour or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

1. Preheat your grill to approximately 400° F.
2. Spray or brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Place the marinated chicken on the grill.
2. Cook for approximately 7-8 minutes on one side.
3. Flip the chicken and grill another 6-8 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165° F).
4. Remove from grill and let rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted water.
2. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining into a colander.

Step 5: Prepare Tomato Basil Sauce

1. Return pot to stove over medium heat and add olive oil.
2. Once hot, add minced garlic; cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add halved cherry tomatoes along with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
4. Sauté until tomatoes soften and release juices—about several minutes.
5. Stir in chopped basil.

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. Add drained pasta back into the pot with tomato basil mixture.
2. Pour in reserved pasta water as needed; toss everything together until well combined.
3. Serve topped with sliced balsamic grilled chicken, shredded Parmesan cheese, balsamic glaze, and extra basil if desired.

How to Serve Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Serving Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its fresh flavors.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the pasta perfectly.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic reduction can enhance the Italian theme.

Garnish for Extra Flavor

• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzling additional balsamic glaze over the top adds a sweet tang that enhances the grilled chicken.
• Extra Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan can add richness and depth to each bite.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is a classic side that everyone loves, perfect for soaking up leftover sauce.
• Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil brings a delightful crunch and freshness.

Beverages

• White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the flavors of this dish.
• Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lemon adds a refreshing touch.

How to Perfect Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Perfecting your Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken will ensure every meal is delicious. Here are some tips to elevate your cooking game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh tomatoes and basil to bring out vibrant flavors in your dish.
• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight instead of just an hour.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture; it should have a slight bite to it.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Saving some pasta water helps create a silky sauce when tossing everything together.
• Adjust Seasoning Wisely: Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper gradually to find the perfect balance of flavors.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy your dish right after making it for the best taste and texture.

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Best Side Dishes for Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options that pair well with Tomato Basil Pasta.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil adds color and nutrition to your table.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing complements the pasta’s flavors nicely.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus on the grill provides a fresh crunch that contrasts well with the pasta.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese make for an elegant side choice.
5. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil as a light accompaniment.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables offers variety and excitement to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken, there are some common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using cold chicken: Always marinate your chicken for at least an hour. Cold chicken doesn’t absorb flavors well, which can lead to bland results.
• Overcooking the pasta: Follow package instructions closely. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and doesn’t hold up against the fresh ingredients.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season at each step. Adding salt and pepper at the right moments enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Not letting chicken rest: After grilling, allow your chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture and improves tenderness.
• Ignoring fresh ingredients: Use fresh basil and quality tomatoes for the best flavor. Dried herbs won’t provide the same vibrant taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months; ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or olive oil in a pan over medium heat, stirring until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. It cooks similarly and will taste great with this recipe.

What other proteins can I use instead of chicken?

You can easily swap chicken for shrimp or tofu if you prefer a different protein option while still enjoying a similar flavor profile.

How can I customize my Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. You can also use different types of cheese if desired.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

How do I prevent my pasta from sticking together?

Make sure to cook your pasta in plenty of salted water and stir occasionally during cooking. This helps keep it from clumping.

Final Thoughts

Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish that balances freshness with rich flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding seasonal vegetables, different herbs, or even swapping out proteins according to your preferences!