Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe
This balsamic grilled chicken with tomato basil pasta is a fresh and flavorful meal. Juicy, marinated chicken is grilled to perfection and paired with a light, garlicky tomato basil pasta. A drizzle of balsamic glaze and Parmesan cheese ties everything together beautifully. It's an easy yet elegant dish perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Balsamic Grilled Chicken
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp pesto
- 1 tsp honey
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
Tomato Basil Pasta
- 12 oz uncooked pasta gluten-free if needed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced or grated
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 2 tbsp fresh basil chopped
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 tbsp shredded Parmesan cheese
- Balsamic glaze & extra basil for garnish optional
Instructions
Balsamic Grilled Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag with the marinade ingredients, ensuring an even coat. Seal tightly, removing excess air, and massage the marinade into the chicken. Let it marinate for at least an hour or overnight for best flavor.
- Preheat your grill to 400°F and lightly oil the grates. Grill the chicken for about 7-8 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 6-8 minutes, depending on thickness. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
Tomato Basil Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
- In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in cherry tomatoes, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, then add fresh basil.
- Return the drained pasta to the pot and toss with the tomato mixture, gradually adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
- Serve topped with sliced balsamic grilled chicken, Parmesan cheese, balsamic glaze, and extra basil. Enjoy!
Notes
- Choose the Best Tomatoes: Use ripe cherry or grape tomatoes for maximum flavor; canned works in a pinch.
- Let the Chicken Rest: Resting after grilling keeps it juicy and tender.
- Fresh Parmesan Matters: Grate fresh Parmesan for the best taste and texture.