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Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Savory Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Delight

This Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken is a quick, fresh summer dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marination Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 4 plates
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 540
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Uncooked Pasta Gluten-free if needed
  • 1 tbsp Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning the pasta water
For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Substitute with thighs for more flavor
  • 1/2 cup Balsamic Vinegar Can be replaced with apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup Pesto Consider homemade for the best results
  • 1 tbsp Honey Maple syrup serves as a great alternative
  • 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Add more or omit for milder flavor
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Used for sautéing
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh is best
  • 2 cups Cherry Tomatoes Diced larger tomatoes work in a pinch
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves Dried basil is a last-minute backup
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Consider nutritional yeast for dairy-free
For Garnish
  • 1 tbsp Balsamic Glaze Optional, but adds a lovely finish

Equipment

  • Grill
  • large pot
  • resealable bag
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a resealable bag, combine balsamic vinegar, pesto, honey, and red pepper flakes. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated. Marinate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight.
  2. Preheat your grill to 400°F. Grill the chicken for 7-8 minutes on one side, then flip and grill for another 6-8 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  3. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  4. Heat olive oil in the same pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add cherry tomatoes, season, and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
  5. Add drained pasta and reserved water to the pot. Mix in chopped basil and grated Parmesan, adjusting the consistency with more reserved water if needed.
  6. Plate the pasta, top with sliced grilled chicken, and garnish with extra Parmesan, basil, and balsamic glaze.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 62gProtein: 40gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allowing the chicken to marinate for longer enhances the flavors. Adjust the heat level of the red pepper flakes to your preference.

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