Grilled Chicken Bruschetta with Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and wholesome meal perfect for warm-weather dining or a light yet satisfying dinner.
Juicy grilled chicken is topped with a vibrant bruschetta mix of tomatoes, basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze, served alongside a refreshing pasta salad bursting with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. It’s the perfect combination of Italian flavors and summer comfort.
Serve it chilled or at room temperature for picnics, BBQs, or weeknight dinners.
Grilled Chicken Bruschetta With Caprese Pasta Salad
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan or stovetop skillet if no grill available
- Medium saucepan
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander
Ingredients
Grilled Chicken Bruschetta:
- 4 skinless chicken breasts boneless
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Bruschetta Topping:
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup fresh basil chopped
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling optional but recommended
Caprese Pasta Salad:
- 8 oz short pasta penne, rotini, or farfalle
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls or diced mozzarella
- ¼ cup fresh basil chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the ChickenPat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub each with olive oil and season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let sit at room temperature while preparing other ingredients.Step 2: Make the Bruschetta ToppingIn a small bowl, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside to marinate.
- Step 3: Cook the PastaBring a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool.Step 4: Grill the ChickenPreheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Step 5: Assemble Caprese Pasta SaladIn a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss to coat and refrigerate or serve immediately.Step 6: ServeSlice grilled chicken and top each piece with a generous spoonful of bruschetta topping. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if using. Plate alongside the chilled Caprese Pasta Salad.
Video
Notes
Cooking Tips
- For Juicier Chicken: Marinate the chicken for 1–2 hours in olive oil, lemon juice, and Italian herbs.
- Customize Your Salad: Add arugula or baby spinach for extra greens.
- Make Ahead: Both the bruschetta topping and pasta salad can be made a few hours in advance for easier meal prep.
- Don’t Overcook: Monitor chicken doneness carefully to avoid dryness.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 580 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Protein | 48 g |
| Total Fat | 27 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3 g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 14 g |
| Trans Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 110 mg |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
| Potassium | 850 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Vitamin A | 850 IU |
| Vitamin C | 16 mg |
| Calcium | 180 mg |
| Iron | 2.2 mg |
| Serving Size | ~400 g |
How About Alternative Ingredients?
If you’re looking to customize this recipe to suit dietary needs or simply use what you have on hand, there are plenty of flexible ingredient swaps you can try. For the chicken, boneless thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier cut, or you can substitute with grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
If you’re avoiding grilling, pan-searing, or baking, the protein works just as well. For a seafood twist, grilled shrimp or salmon also pair beautifully with the bruschetta topping.
When it comes to the bruschetta topping, feel free to experiment with heirloom tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor. Not a fan of basil? Try fresh parsley or arugula for a different herbal profile.
For the Caprese pasta salad, any short pasta like fusilli or cavatappi can stand in for penne or farfalle, and dairy-free mozzarella alternatives make this dish vegan-friendly. You can also bulk up the salad with extras like avocado, roasted red peppers, or olives for added texture and flavor.
The balsamic dressing can be swapped for a lemon vinaigrette if you’re aiming for a lighter, citrusy finish.
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Summary
Grilled Chicken Bruschetta with Caprese Pasta Salad brings together fresh ingredients and bold flavors in a way that feels both satisfying and light.
It’s a well-balanced dish that works beautifully for summer meals, family dinners, or casual entertaining.
Simple preparation, customizable ingredients, and a blend of textures make it a reliable go-to recipe.
Serve it warm or chilled, plate it individually or family-style, either way, it delivers on flavor and freshness every time.
Read More: Learn how to make the perfect Korean garlic butter chicken skewers, an amazing choice for any kind of lunch party, fancy or not! Bring some culture to your plates!
I’m Leo McIntyre, and my love for cooking was born in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I discovered the magic of traditional Southern recipes. Inspired by her passion and the flavors of my childhood, I started SouthernParm to share these treasured family dishes and keep the rich culinary traditions of the South alive for everyone to enjoy.
