Tomato Basil Balsamic Chicken Pasta (Print Version)

Vibrant pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, and perfectly grilled balsamic chicken for a delicious Italian-inspired meal.

# Ingredients:

→ Balsamic Grilled Chicken

01 - 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
02 - 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
03 - 1 tablespoon pesto
04 - 1 teaspoon honey
05 - Pinch red pepper flakes
06 - Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

→ Tomato Basil Pasta

07 - 12 ounces uncooked pasta, gluten-free if needed
08 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
09 - 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
10 - 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
11 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
12 - Pinch of red pepper flakes
13 - Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
14 - 3 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
15 - Balsamic glaze and extra chopped basil for garnish (optional)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Place the chicken breasts in a freezer bag along with all the marinade ingredients. Seal the bag, pressing out the air, and massage the marinade into the chicken. Let the chicken marinate for at least an hour or overnight.
02 - Preheat your grill to approximately 400°F and spray or brush the grates with oil. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for approximately 7-8 minutes, then flip and grill another 6-8 minutes depending on the size and thickness of the chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Remove from the grill and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
03 - Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta into a colander.
04 - Return the pan or pot to the stove and add the olive oil. Heat the oil over medium heat and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, then add the cherry tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for several minutes until the tomatoes soften and release some of their juices.
05 - Add the chopped basil to the tomato mixture and stir. Pour the pasta back into the pan and toss with the tomato basil mixture. Add some of the reserved pasta water to create a sauce, using more as needed. Top the pasta with sliced balsamic grilled chicken, Parmesan cheese, balsamic glaze, and extra chopped basil.