Tomato Basil Pasta With Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe
Savor the fusion of tangy, sweet balsamic grilled chicken atop a bed of aromatic tomato basil pasta. This recipe brings together the juiciness of perfectly grilled chicken cutlets with the fresh, vibrant flavours of basil-infused tomatoes and pasta, all tied up with the richness of freshly grated Parmesan. A meal that promises a delightful taste experience with every forkful.
Tomato Basil Pasta With Balsamic Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
For Balsamic Grilled Chicken
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Balsamic vinegar
- Pesto
- Honey
- Red pepper flakes
For Tomato Basil Pasta
- Pasta
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Cherry tomatoes
- Fresh basil
- Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano recommended for the best flavor)
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
Directions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a resealable bag, combine balsamic vinegar, pesto, honey, and red pepper flakes with the chicken breasts. Massage the marinade into the chicken and let it marinate for at least one hour or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Oil the grates lightly and grill the chicken for 7-8 minutes on one side, then flip and grill for another 6-8 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°-165°F. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Tomato Basil Sauce: While the pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes (or dice if using a larger variety), chiffonade the basil, and grate or mince the garlic. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat, and sauté the tomatoes, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes until the tomatoes start to soften and release juices.
- Combine Pasta with Sauce: Return the drained pasta to the pot with the tomato mixture. Add enough reserved pasta water to form a sauce that coats the pasta (it should not be soupy). Stir in the basil and Parmesan cheese until well mixed. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top with slices of the balsamic grilled chicken. Optionally, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
How to Chiffonade Basil
- Stack the basil leaves with the underside facing up, then roll them tightly like a cigar.
- Starting at one end, use a knife to thinly slice the roll into ribbons.
- Using a chef’s knife with a rocking motion while keeping the tip on the cutting board helps make easier slices.
Enjoy your fresh and light Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken, perfect for a summer meal!
