If you are craving a dish that bursts with fresh flavors and satisfying textures, this Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender, tangy balsamic-infused grilled chicken with vibrant tomato and fragrant basil pasta, creating a perfect balance of acidity, sweetness, and herbal brightness. Every bite offers a dance of juicy cherry tomatoes, garlicky warmth, and a subtle kick of red pepper flakes, all crowned with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This recipe is a standout option for a wholesome weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend feast that feels both elegant and comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe starts with simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each adds a unique flavor or texture that when combined, results in a dish that is fresh, colorful, and absolutely delicious.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose fresh chicken for juicy, tender grilled pieces that soak up the marinade beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Adds a rich, tangy depth to the chicken marinade and a hint of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon pesto: Brings an herby, nutty complexity enhancing both chicken and pasta flavors.
- 1 teaspoon honey: Balances the acidity of the balsamic with gentle sweetness.
- Pinch red pepper flakes: Provides a subtle, pleasant heat to keep the dish lively without overpowering it.
- Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best flavors.
- 12 ounces uncooked pasta (gluten-free if needed): Select your favorite shape to hold the sauce—linguine or penne work beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing garlic and to help soften the tomatoes maintaining their brightness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated: Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and depth.
- 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes: Burst with juicy sweetness, adding vivid color and freshness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves: The fragrant herb that defines the dish’s bright, garden-fresh flavor.
- 3 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty goodness that completes every bite.
- Balsamic glaze and extra chopped basil for garnish (optional): For an elegant finish that enhances presentation and flavor.
How to Make Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate and Grill the Chicken
Begin by combining the chicken breasts with balsamic vinegar, pesto, honey, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a sealable bag. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to deeply infuse. Then, grill the chicken over medium heat until cooked through and perfectly caramelized, about 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. You want a charred exterior with juicy, tender meat inside. Rest the chicken while you prepare the pasta to lock in those delicious juices.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. Remember to reserve about a half cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy liquid is magic when it comes to binding your sauce and pasta together for an irresistibly silky texture.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook gently until fragrant, being careful not to burn it—about 1 minute. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes along with a pinch of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the tomatoes soften and release their juices until they just start collapsing, about 4-5 minutes. This simple sauté preserves their bright flavor while adding a luscious sauce component.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Remove the skillet from the heat, stir in the fresh basil leaves, then add the drained pasta back into the pan. Gradually add small amounts of the reserved pasta water while tossing everything together to create a glossy, cohesive sauce that coats every strand. This step ensures your Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe stays perfectly moist and flavorful.
Step 5: Assemble and Garnish
Slice your balsamic grilled chicken and place it atop the pasta. Sprinkle generously with shredded Parmesan cheese and, if you love that extra pop of richness, drizzle with balsamic glaze. A final scatter of chopped fresh basil adds color and intensifies the herbal aroma, making this dish as beautiful as it is tasty.
How to Serve Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze are the simplest way to elevate this dish both visually and in flavor. You can also add toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a touch more heat. A wedge of lemon on the side can brighten up each bite even further, offering a fresh citrus twist.
Side Dishes
This Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with light, refreshing side dishes. Consider a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus with a hint of garlic. Warm, crusty bread is also wonderful for soaking up any extra sauce and making the meal feel wonderfully complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation that will wow guests, serve the pasta in shallow bowls and nestle the sliced grilled chicken on top. Use extra basil leaves as edible confetti and drizzle spirals of balsamic glaze around the rim of the plate. You could even serve individual portions in hollowed-out tomatoes or small terracotta dishes for a rustic, charming touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover tomato basil pasta and grilled chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the grilled chicken sliced separately to maintain its texture, and toss the pasta with a little olive oil before refrigerating to prevent it from sticking together. This makes weekday lunches or second dinners a breeze.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the grilled chicken separately. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Pasta doesn’t always freeze well due to texture changes, so it’s recommended to prepare fresh sauce and pasta when ready to eat and simply reheat the chicken.
Reheating
Gently reheat the chicken in a warm oven or skillet to keep it juicy, and warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can cause the pasta to become dry and the chicken to overcook. This will keep your Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe tasting as fresh as the day it was made.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or linguine work beautifully, you can use any pasta you prefer or have on hand, including gluten-free varieties. The key is to cook it al dente so it holds up well with the sauce and chicken.
How long should I marinate the chicken for best flavor?
Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes helps build great flavor, but if you have more time, up to 2 hours will really allow the balsamic and pesto to penetrate deeply for an even more delicious result.
Is balsamic glaze necessary for this recipe?
While optional, balsamic glaze adds a lovely sweet-tangy finish and looks gorgeous drizzled on the dish. If you don’t have any on hand, a simple balsamic vinegar reduction or a sprinkle of extra balsamic vinegar also works wonderfully.
Can I prepare this recipe if I don’t have a grill?
Definitely! You can cook the marinated chicken in a hot skillet or bake it in the oven. Both methods will yield juicy, flavorful chicken that complements the pasta beautifully.
What can I do if I don’t have fresh basil?
Fresh basil is ideal for its bright aroma, but if unavailable, you can substitute with fresh spinach for color and some dried basil for flavor, adding it at the end of cooking to preserve its taste as much as possible.
Final Thoughts
This Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels special without requiring a ton of effort. It’s fresh, vibrant, and satisfying, hitting all the right notes for flavor and texture. Next time you want a meal that’s both comforting and bursting with summery brightness, give this recipe a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 53 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 38 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying meal combining tender, tangy balsamic-marinated grilled chicken with a fresh, vibrant pasta tossed in garlic, cherry tomatoes, and basil. Finished with Parmesan cheese and optional balsamic glaze for a perfect balance of savory and sweet, this dish is ideal for a wholesome weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
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 freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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 red pepper flakes
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
- Balsamic glaze and extra chopped basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Balsamic Marinade: In a resealable bag or container, combine balsamic vinegar, pesto, honey, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Add the chicken breasts, seal the bag, and toss to coat completely. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and discard excess marinade. Grill chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Set aside and keep warm.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, pinch of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Add Basil and Combine: Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves into the tomato mixture. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If the mixture is dry, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Serve the Dish: Divide pasta among plates. Slice the grilled balsamic chicken and place on top of the pasta. Sprinkle with shredded Parmesan cheese and garnish with balsamic glaze and extra chopped basil if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor, but you can marinate up to 4 hours if time permits.
- Use gluten-free pasta if necessary to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spiciness level.
- Balsamic glaze is optional but adds a lovely sweet acidity when drizzled on the finished dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
