Description
A colorful, fresh pasta dish combining marinated cherry tomatoes, tender chicken, and aromatic basil for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 12 oz dry spaghetti
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/2 cup grated or finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze, optional
Instructions
- Marinate the tomatoes by combining the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, kosher salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Toss thoroughly and let sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Boil water in a 5- to 6-quart pot and cook the spaghetti according to package directions, about 8 to 11 minutes.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water before draining the spaghetti, then drain but do not rinse.
- Season the diced chicken with Italian seasoning in a clean bowl.
- Cook the chicken in a skillet with 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat for 5 to 7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Soften the tomatoes by adding the marinated mixture to the skillet with the remaining olive oil. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Combine the chicken, drained spaghetti, and reserved pasta water in the skillet, tossing for 1 to 2 minutes until coated.
- Finish by removing from heat and tossing in the Parmesan cheese before serving, optionally drizzling with balsamic glaze.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, substitute gluten-free spaghetti. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 690
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 73g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 48g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Bruschetta, Chicken Pasta, Weeknight Dinners, Italian Cuisine, Quick Meals