Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken: Your New Weeknight Favorite

Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Do you crave a meal that's both effortlessly elegant and bursting with fresh flavors? Look no further! This "Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken" recipe is not just trending for its deliciousness, but also for its ability to transform a simple weeknight into a culinary delight. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your dinner guests with this vibrant and satisfying dish.

This recipe perfectly marries the bright, sweet notes of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil with the smoky, tangy char of balsamic-glazed chicken. It's a symphony of flavors and textures that will have you coming back for seconds, and perhaps even thirds!

The Perfect Blend of Fresh and Flavorful

What makes this dish so special? It's all about the fresh ingredients and the thoughtful layering of flavors. The pasta serves as a comforting base, while the simple yet exquisite tomato and basil sauce provides a burst of Mediterranean sunshine. But the real star is the balsamic grilled chicken – tender, juicy, and infused with a sweet and savory glaze that complements the pasta beautifully. This isn't just a meal; it's an experience!

Ready to dive in? Let's get cooking!

Ingredients:

For the Balsamic Grilled Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Tomato Basil Pasta:

8 ounces pasta of your choice (penne, farfalle, or fusilli work well)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus extra for garnish
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Part 1: Prepare the Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Marinate the Chicken: In a shallow dish or resealable bag, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated. Marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade (discarding any leftover marinade). Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). The chicken should have nice grill marks and a slightly caramelized exterior.
Rest and Slice: Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips. This helps keep the chicken juicy. Here's a look at the beautifully grilled balsamic chicken:

Part 2: Prepare the Tomato Basil Pasta

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
Sauté Aromatics: While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and burst, creating a rustic sauce. Here's a glimpse of the vibrant tomato and basil pasta:
Combine and Finish: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic. Toss to combine. Stir in the chopped fresh basil. If the sauce seems too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Serving:

Divide the tomato basil pasta among plates. Top each serving with generous slices of the balsamic grilled chicken. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your culinary masterpiece!

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try:

Quick and Easy: Despite its sophisticated flavor, this dish comes together in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with fresh vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains (if using whole wheat pasta), it's a meal you can feel good about.
Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of sweet tomatoes, aromatic basil, and tangy balsamic chicken creates a taste sensation that's hard to beat.
Versatile: Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes, add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or even switch up the protein with shrimp or tofu.

Don't just take our word for it – try this "Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken" recipe tonight and experience the deliciousness for yourself!