balsamic chicken pasta recipe

balsamic chicken pasta recipe

The Best balsamic chicken pasta recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes: balsamic chicken pasta. This dish is a staple in our household, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether we’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal to serve at a family gathering, this recipe never fails to impress. The combination of tender chicken, rich balsamic glaze, and perfectly cooked pasta is simply irresistible. And the best part?

It’s incredibly easy to customize to your taste preferences. Want more veggies? Add some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers to the mix. Prefer a lighter sauce? Use less balsamic glaze or substitute in some olive oil.

The options are endless, making this recipe a true crowd-pleaser. As an added bonus, this dish is also incredibly healthy. The lean protein from the chicken pairs perfectly with the complex carbohydrates from the pasta, making it a well-rounded meal that will keep you full and satisfied. And let’s not forget about the antioxidants from the balsamic glaze – it’s like a superfood in a saucepan! So why do I love this recipe so much?

For starters, it’s incredibly versatile. Need a meal that can be ready in under 30 minutes? This recipe is perfect for that. Want to make it more substantial for a special occasion? Simply add some roasted vegetables or a side salad to round out the meal.

And let’s not forget about the kids – they love helping me cook this recipe! From measuring out the ingredients to stirring the sauce (carefully, of course), my little ones are always eager to lend a hand. In short, this balsamic chicken pasta recipe is a game-changer for any home cook. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try tonight and see why it’s become one of our favorite family recipes.

Balsamic Chicken Pasta

Balsamic Chicken Pasta

4.8 from 1602 votes

Tender chicken breast strips are pan-seared and simmered in a rich balsamic glaze, then tossed with al dente pasta and fresh vegetables. This quick one-pan meal balances tangy sweetness with savory herbs for a satisfying dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano

For the Sauce and Pasta

3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon tomato paste
8 oz penne pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes.
3Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
4While the pasta cooks, season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
5Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
6Add the chicken strips in a single layer and cook without stirring for 4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
7Flip the strips and cook another 3 to 4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
8Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
9Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet.
10Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly.
11Pour in the balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, honey, and tomato paste.
12Whisk the mixture until the tomato paste is fully incorporated and the sauce begins to simmer.
13Let the sauce cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly and reduces by about one-third.
14Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with any accumulated juices.
15Add the cherry tomato halves and toss everything together.
16Cook for 2 minutes over medium heat until the tomatoes soften slightly and the chicken is reheated.
17The sauce should coat the chicken and tomatoes evenly.
18Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss well to combine with the sauce, chicken, and tomatoes.
19Sprinkle the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
20Serve immediately while hot.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Large pot
Colander
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 48g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 12g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For a thicker sauce, let it simmer an extra 2 minutes before adding the chicken. You can substitute whole wheat pasta for extra fiber. Fresh basil adds the best flavor, but dried basil can be used in a pinch.

Watch Video Of How Balsamic Chicken Pasta Works

This balsamic chicken pasta recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether we’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal to serve at a family gathering. One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – need something quick and easy?

Serve it as-is with some crusty bread on the side. Want something more substantial?

Add some roasted vegetables or a side salad to round out the meal. The key to keeping leftovers fresh is storing them properly: transfer them to an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking and reheat gently over low heat until warmed through.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Balsamic Chicken Pasta

1. What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using a high-quality, store-bought pasta that’s made from 100% durum wheat semolina. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer.

2. Can I substitute in different types of protein?

Absolutely! While chicken breast is my go-to choice for this recipe, you can also use boneless chicken thighs or even pork tenderloin if you prefer.

3. How long should I cook the pasta?

Cook your pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente – about 8-10 minutes for most types of pasta.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients and sauce ahead of time, but be sure to cook the pasta just before serving.

5. How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

6. Can I reheat leftovers without compromising texture?

Avoid overcooking your leftovers by reheating them gently over low heat until warmed through.

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