The first time I made Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe, it instantly became a family favorite. There’s just something about the combination of grilled chicken marinated in a tangy, slightly sweet balsamic sauce, paired with fresh, juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil that screams summer comfort food. The tender pasta soaks up all those incredible flavors, while a drizzle of balsamic glaze and grated Parmesan elevate the dish to something truly special.

What I love most, however, is how easy yet impressive it is. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a treat but can be whipped up even on a busy weeknight. And with its fresh, light ingredients, it’s perfect for warmer weather. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick family dinner or serving it at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to delight everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This fresh and vibrant dish is packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion!

Fresh and Summery Flavors

This dish is all about celebrating fresh ingredients. Sweet, juicy tomatoes, garden-fresh basil, and the rich tanginess of balsamic glaze come together to create a light, flavorful meal perfect for summer evenings.

Simple Yet Sophisticated

With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is deceptively simple to make. But the flavors and presentation make it feel like a restaurant-quality dish you can proudly serve to guests.

Satisfying and Balanced

The combination of marinated grilled chicken and pasta creates a balanced meal packed with protein, carbs, and healthy fats. It’s hearty enough for dinner but doesn’t leave you feeling overly full.

Customizable for Different Diets

This recipe is versatile and works well with gluten-free pasta or vegetarian substitutes like marinated tofu or roasted vegetables in place of chicken. It’s easily adaptable to suit a variety of dietary preferences.

Quick to Prepare

Despite its gourmet feel, this pasta comes together in less than two hours, including prep and marinating time. It’s a perfect option when you’re short on time but still want something special.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 23 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 38 minutes

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Balsamic vinegar
Pesto
Honey
Red pepper flakes
Pasta (gluten-free if needed)
Olive oil
Garlic
Cherry tomatoes
Fresh basil
Parmesan cheese
Balsamic glaze

Variations

Use zoodles (zucchini noodles) instead of pasta for a low-carb option.
Substitute the honey with maple syrup or omit it altogether for a sugar-free version.
Swap chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for an alternative protein.

Equipment You’ll Need

Resealable Bag: To marinate the chicken for maximum flavor.
Grill or Grill Pan: For perfectly seared chicken.
Large Pot: For cooking the pasta and tomatoes.
Sharp Knife: To chiffonade basil and slice chicken.

How to Make Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken?

This flavorful dish comes together in a few simple steps, combining juicy balsamic grilled chicken with fresh tomato basil pasta!

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken 🐔

Combine balsamic vinegar, pesto, honey, and red pepper flakes in a resealable bag. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re fully coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight for extra flavor.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken 🔥

Preheat your grill or grill pan to 400°F. Oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill the marinated chicken for 7–8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta 🍝

Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water. This will be used later to make the sauce.

Step 4: Sauté the Tomatoes 🍅

Heat olive oil in the same pot. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Toss in halved cherry tomatoes, then season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.

Step 5: Combine Everything 🌿

Add the cooked pasta back into the pot with the tomatoes. Pour in the reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring until a light sauce forms that evenly coats the pasta. Stir in fresh basil and grated Parmesan, then toss to combine.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve ✨

Transfer the pasta to a serving dish, arranging the sliced balsamic grilled chicken on top. Garnish with additional basil, Parmesan, and optional balsamic glaze for a touch of elegance.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Get the Best Tomatoes: Use ripe, in-season cherry or grape tomatoes for the brightest flavor. If not available, you can use canned cherry tomatoes in a pinch.
Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Resting the grilled chicken ensures the juices stay locked in, making each bite tender and moist.
Use Fresh Parmesan: Grating fresh Parmesan cheese elevates the dish and adds an authentic flavor.

How to Serve Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken?

Serve with a light green salad on the side for added freshness.
Garlic bread pairs wonderfully, soaking up any leftover sauce from the plate.
For a special touch, offer extra balsamic glaze on the side for drizzling.
Plate it neatly with chicken slices fanned out on top for an appealing presentation.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (approximately):

Calories: 482
Protein: 44g
Carbohydrates: 41g
Fat: 15g

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead Tips

This dish is great for meal prep! You can grill the chicken and cook the pasta a day ahead. Store them separately to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much sauce before serving.

Storage Guidelines

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or olive oil to restore moisture. For extended storage, freeze the marinated chicken and pre-cooked pasta separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken is a versatile recipe that celebrates simplicity and fresh flavors. It’s hearty enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to impress guests. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll soon see why it’s a timeless favorite in my kitchen!