Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting friends, or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe combines fresh flavors and easy preparation. The light pasta pairs beautifully with the savory balsamic chicken, making it a delightful meal that everyone will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be made in under two hours, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh tomatoes and basil elevates the flavor profile, making each bite delicious.
• Versatile Meal: Great for lunch or dinner, it’s suitable for various dietary preferences, including gluten-free options.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and vegetables, this pasta dish is as nutritious as it is tasty.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the balsamic chicken.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A good pot ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
• Colander: Needed to drain the pasta while reserving some water for sauce consistency.

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 the 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 the 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)

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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 excess air and massage the marinade into the chicken.
3. Let 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 marinated chicken on the grill.
2. Cook for about 7-8 minutes on one side.
3. Flip and grill for another 6-8 minutes until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165° F).
4. Remove from grill and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Prepare the Pasta

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Return pot to stove over medium heat; add olive oil.

Step 5: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

1. Add minced garlic to oil; cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in halved cherry tomatoes; season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Sauté until tomatoes soften and juices are released.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Tomato Mixture

1. Stir in chopped basil into tomato mixture.
2. Add drained pasta back into pot; pour in reserved pasta water as needed to create sauce consistency.
3. Toss everything together until well-coated.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

1. Top plated pasta with sliced balsamic grilled chicken.
2. Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese on top.
3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with extra basil if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken!

How to Serve Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Serving Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish that will impress your guests.

Plating Suggestions

• Layered Presentation: Start with a base of tomato basil pasta, then neatly arrange the sliced balsamic grilled chicken on top for visual appeal.
• Bowl Style: Serve in a large bowl, mixing the pasta and chicken together for a cozy, family-style meal.
• Garnished Delight: Finish your plating with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of extra fresh basil for added flavor and color.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of toasted garlic bread or a baguette to soak up the sauce.
• Simple Salad: A light arugula or mixed greens salad complements the richness of the dish perfectly.
• Wine Pairing: Consider pairing with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or light red wine for an enhanced meal experience.

How to Perfect Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Perfecting this dish is all about balance and flavor. Here are some tips to ensure you get it right every time.

• Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it becomes. Aim for at least 2 hours for optimal taste.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes make a significant difference in flavor compared to dried alternatives.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook your pasta al dente for the best texture; it should have a slight bite when you eat it.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Remember to save some pasta water as it helps create a silkier sauce when combined with the other ingredients.
• Customize Spice Levels: Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference, making it milder or hotter as desired.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like feta or mozzarella for varied flavors alongside Parmesan.

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Best Side Dishes for Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Pairing sides with your Tomato Basil Pasta and Balsamic Grilled Chicken can enhance the meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Classic Caesar salad adds crunch and zest, balancing well with the pasta’s flavors.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring extra nutrients and vibrant colors to your plate.
4. Caprese Skewers: Easy-to-make skewers with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction make a great starter.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a tender side that pairs beautifully with chicken and pasta.
6. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad packed with veggies provides an excellent contrast in texture and taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to a lack of flavor. Always let it sit for at least an hour, or overnight for best results.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long makes it mushy. Follow the package instructions and taste it a minute before the suggested time.
• Ignoring Reserved Pasta Water: Not saving pasta water can result in a dry dish. This starchy water helps create a creamy sauce, so reserve at least 1/2 cup.
• Grilling Without Preheating: Failing to preheat the grill means uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to around 400°F for perfect grilling.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using dried herbs instead of fresh basil diminishes the dish’s flavor. Opt for fresh basil whenever possible for a vibrant taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the pasta and chicken to cool before sealing in a container.

Freezing Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months.
• Ensure it is completely cooled before freezing to prevent ice crystals.

Reheating Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Bake in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes on high, stirring between each interval until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pan, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can use gluten-free pasta varieties that are widely available. They work just as well as regular pasta in this recipe.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute grilled shrimp or turkey for a different flavor profile while maintaining the essence of this dish.

What sides pair well with Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken?

A light salad or garlic bread complements this dish beautifully, providing additional freshness and crunch.

Is Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. Just store portions separately for easy reheating during the week.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers while sautéing the tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken is not only delicious but also easy to customize. You can adjust the herbs or add seasonal vegetables according to your preference. Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a dinner party highlight, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try today!