If you’ve ever been to TGI Friday’s and fallen in love with their chicken bruschetta pasta, this recipe is the perfect way to recreate that delicious dish at home. With tender, juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, basil, and a balsamic reduction, this pasta dish is packed with flavor and is surprisingly easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love TGI Friday’s Chicken Bruschetta Pasta
- Bursting with flavor: The combination of grilled chicken, fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic vinegar creates an explosion of Italian flavors.
- Quick to make: This pasta comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Customizable and fresh: You can adjust the flavors and add your own twist, making it a versatile and fresh dish.
How to Make TGI Friday’s Chicken Bruschetta Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your preferred type)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3-4 fresh tomatoes, diced (or cherry tomatoes, halved)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Optional garnish: balsamic glaze, extra basil leaves
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.
- Make the bruschetta topping: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes and balsamic vinegar, and cook until the tomatoes start to soften, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped basil.
- Combine pasta, chicken, and topping: Toss the cooked pasta with the tomato mixture in the skillet. Add the sliced chicken and mix everything together until well combined.
- Serve and garnish: Divide the pasta among plates and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with extra basil leaves if desired.
Tips for a Perfect TGI Friday’s Chicken Bruschetta Pasta
- Marinate the chicken: For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs before cooking.
- Use fresh ingredients: The dish shines with fresh, ripe tomatoes and basil.
- Make it a pasta salad: This dish can be served warm or chilled as a pasta salad for a refreshing twist.
For more Italian-inspired dishes, check out our Bruschetta Chicken Pasta and Chicken Bruschetta Pasta recipes to explore different takes on this classic flavor combination.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken, adding it to the pasta just before serving.
2. Can I use dried basil?
While fresh basil gives the best flavor, you can use dried basil in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon dried basil to replace the fresh basil.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or enjoy it cold.
Conclusion: Enjoy the Flavors of TGI Friday’s at Home
TGI Friday’s chicken bruschetta pasta is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings all the deliciousness of the restaurant meal right to your kitchen. The fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic vinegar add brightness, while the tender chicken and pasta make it hearty and satisfying.
Final Verdict: If you’re craving a fresh, restaurant-inspired pasta dish that’s quick to make, this chicken bruschetta pasta will not disappoint.