Imagine a dish that transforms your ordinary pasta night into a culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance! This Grilled Chicken Bruschetta Pasta Salad is not just a recipe—it's a flavor explosion that combines the smoky charm of perfectly grilled chicken, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the tangy sophistication of balsamic glaze. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for your next summer gathering, this Italian-inspired creation promises to elevate your meal from mundane to magnificent in just 35 minutes!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
- 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking process.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, sliced grilled chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls.
- Chop fresh basil leaves and sprinkle over the pasta mixture. Gently toss all ingredients to combine.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad, ensuring even distribution. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Optional: Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a final drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, grill the chicken just before assembling the salad to ensure it's warm and juicy.
- Use high-quality mozzarella balls for the best texture and flavor.
- Allow the salad to rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Choose pasta shapes that can hold the dressing and ingredients well, like rotini or penne.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute grilled chicken with rotisserie chicken or even tofu.
- Always season your pasta water with salt to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Fresh basil is key—don't substitute dried herbs if possible.
- If you don't have a grill, a grill pan or even a skillet works perfectly for cooking the chicken.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 481kcal
Carbohydrates: 53g
Protein: 47g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 105mg
