Creamy Chicken Bruschetta Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that brings the fresh flavors of a classic bruschetta together with the comfort of creamy pasta, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Bruschetta Pasta. It’s a delightful combination of tender chicken, juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. This recipe is straightforward enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve guests. Let’s dive into why this recipe works so well and how you can make it your new favorite pasta dish.

Why This Recipe Works

What makes this Creamy Chicken Bruschetta Pasta stand out is its balance of fresh and rich flavors. The juicy cherry tomatoes and fresh basil provide a bright, vibrant note reminiscent of traditional bruschetta, while the creamy Parmesan sauce adds indulgence and depth. The diced chicken breast is seasoned simply to highlight its natural flavor and pairs beautifully with the garlic and olive oil base. Using penne pasta ensures every bite is coated in creamy sauce and dotted with bits of tomato and basil.

This recipe also works because it’s customizable and comes together quickly. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner party, you’ll appreciate how effortlessly the ingredients come together to create a satisfying, flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy.

What Goes In

• 8 oz penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold the creamy sauce and chunky bruschetta mix.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and bringing out the garlic flavor.
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced: Tender protein that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds aromatic depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Bursting with sweetness and juiciness to brighten the dish.
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped: Brings a fresh, herbal note that’s signature to bruschetta.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich, velvety base of the sauce.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that makes the sauce irresistible.

Must-Have Equipment

• Large pot: For boiling the penne pasta to al dente perfection.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook the chicken and then combine all ingredients.
• Colander: For draining the cooked pasta.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: To stir and toss the pasta without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.

Creamy Chicken Bruschetta Pasta: How It’s Done

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. Stir to combine and let the tomatoes warm through, but don’t overcook—they should retain their shape and juiciness.

Step 5: Toss with Pasta

Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce and the ingredients are well distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately while warm, garnished with extra basil or Parmesan if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or crusty bread.

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

• Warm weather: Swap heavy cream for a lighter coconut cream and add fresh lemon zest for a refreshing twist.
• Cool weather: Stir in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra heartiness and warmth.
• Summer fresh: Use sun-dried tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes for a more concentrated flavor.
• Winter cozy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat that warms you up.

Insider Tips

• Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and juiciness.
• Don’t overcook the chicken; it should remain tender and juicy.
• Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
• Fresh basil is key — add it at the end to preserve its bright flavor and aroma.
• For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Creamy Chicken Bruschetta Pasta is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken and the sauce gently on the stove, then toss with warm pasta and fresh tomatoes and basil.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the sauce.
• Fresh basil is best added just before serving to keep its flavor vibrant.

Reader Q&A

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is great for holding the sauce, you can use rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the pasta is al dente.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a creamy plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast to keep the cheesy flavor.

Can I prepare this recipe without chicken?

Definitely! For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You could also add chickpeas for protein.

How do I keep the cherry tomatoes from getting mushy?

To retain their shape and freshness, add the cherry tomatoes towards the end of cooking and warm them just until heated through. Overcooking will cause them to break down.

Try These Next

• Tuscan Chicken Alfredo With Spinach – Another creamy chicken pasta with a flavorful twist.
• Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta – A rich and savory option with a mushroom and Marsala wine sauce.

In Closing

This Creamy Chicken Bruschetta Pasta is a perfect blend of fresh, creamy, and savory elements that come together in a simple yet impressive dish. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a satisfying option that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. The combination of juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, tender chicken, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce over penne pasta ticks all the boxes for a delicious meal that’s both comforting and elegant. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the beautiful flavors of bruschetta with the cozy appeal of creamy pasta tonight!

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