Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Salad – A Fresh & Flavorful Meal

Introduction

If you love bruschetta and pasta, why not combine the two into one delicious, refreshing dish? This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Salad takes the classic flavors of Italian bruschetta—fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze—and pairs them with tender grilled chicken and pasta for a light yet satisfying meal.

Perfect for summer gatherings, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is packed with protein, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing. Whether you serve it warm or chilled, it’s a crowd-pleaser!

In this guide, we’ll cover step-by-step instructions, variations, serving suggestions, expert tips, and storage instructions to help you master this fresh and flavorful pasta salad. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy & Delicious: Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and whole grains.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep work.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for potlucks, BBQs, or meal prep.
• Customizable: Use different pasta, add-ins, or proteins.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Stays fresh and flavorful in the fridge.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

For the Pasta Salad:

• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie)
• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ⅓ cup fresh basil, chopped
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ¼ cup balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup mozzarella pearls
• ¼ cup pine nuts or walnuts for crunch
• ½ avocado, diced (for extra creaminess)
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes for heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add pasta and cook according to package directions.
• Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken

• In a bowl, combine olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and balsamic vinegar.
• Coat the chicken breasts and let marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
• Grill over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.

3. Make the Bruschetta Topping

• In a bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red onion, garlic, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

4. Assemble the Pasta Salad

• In a large bowl, combine pasta, grilled chicken, and bruschetta topping.
• Add Parmesan cheese and gently toss everything together.
• Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

5. Serve & Enjoy

• Serve warm or chilled.
• Garnish with extra basil and Parmesan, if desired.

Variations to Try

1. Caprese Bruschetta Pasta Salad

• Add fresh mozzarella pearls for a Caprese-inspired twist.
• Use extra balsamic glaze for added sweetness.

2. Spicy Mediterranean Version

• Add kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, and feta cheese.
• Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for extra heat.

3. Creamy Avocado Bruschetta Pasta Salad

• Mash half an avocado and mix with olive oil for a creamy dressing.
• Add diced avocado for more creaminess.

4. Vegan Bruschetta Pasta Salad

• Swap out the chicken for chickpeas or grilled tofu.
• Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

this PIN FOR LATER

What to Serve with Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Salad

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up all the flavors.
• Grilled Vegetables – A side of zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus.
• Fresh Green Salad – A crisp, refreshing contrast.
• Chilled White Wine – Pairs beautifully with the bright, tangy flavors.

Tips for the Best Pasta Salad

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and good-quality olive oil make a difference.
• Let It Marinate: Allowing the bruschetta topping to sit enhances its flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook until al dente for the best texture.
• Adjust the Dressing: If the pasta absorbs too much, add extra olive oil or balsamic glaze.
• Make It Ahead: Pasta salad tastes even better after sitting for a few hours.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Storing Leftovers:

• Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Add a splash of olive oil or balsamic glaze before serving to freshen it up.

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Cook the pasta and chicken in advance and store separately.
• Mix everything together just before serving to keep it fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Any short pasta like rotini, penne, or bowtie works well.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta for a GF-friendly version.

3. Can I eat this warm or cold?

Both work! It’s delicious right after cooking or chilled.

4. What can I substitute for balsamic glaze?

Try red wine vinegar or a mix of honey and balsamic vinegar.

5. Can I use store-bought bruschetta mix?

Yes! A pre-made bruschetta topping can save time.

Conclusion

This Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Salad is the perfect fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s great for any occasion. Whether served as a light lunch, meal prep, or side dish, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

With juicy tomatoes, grilled chicken, and tangy balsamic glaze, every bite is bursting with Italian-inspired goodness. Try this delicious, vibrant, and satisfying pasta salad today and enjoy a dish that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful!

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