If you’re craving a meal that looks as stunning as it tastes, this Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender grilled chicken glazed with tangy balsamic, sliced over a bed of bright, garlicky tomato and basil pasta—lighter than you’d expect but rich with fresh, vibrant flavors. It’s one of those dishes that’s quick enough for weeknights yet elegant enough to impress guests. The harmony of juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a subtle kick from red pepper flakes makes each bite full of sunshine, while the balsamic drizzle on the grilled chicken brings everything together in a perfect bite of sweet, smoky goodness. You’ll want to savor every forkful!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white round plate on a white marbled surface with two grilled chicken pieces. On the left side is a whole grilled chicken fillet with dark grill marks and a slightly shiny, golden-brown surface. On the right side, the grilled chicken fillet is sliced into even strips, showing the white, juicy inside and the crispy, browned outside with similar grill marks. A part of a grey and white cloth is visible on the bottom right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t be intimidated by this Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe—the ingredient list is beautifully simple. Each component plays a starring role, whether it’s the peppery basil adding a fresh green punch or the garlic infusing savory warmth. The balsamic marinade tenderizes the chicken while topping it with a lively, slightly sweet depth. Every flavor complements the others effortlessly.

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose evenly sized pieces for uniform grilling and perfect juiciness.
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Creates a tangy, slightly sweet marinade that caramelizes on the grill.
1 tablespoon pesto: Adds herbal complexity and richness to the marinade.
1 teaspoon honey: Balances acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
Pinch red pepper flakes: Gives just the right hint of heat to awaken your taste buds.
Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste: Season generously to enhance every bite.
12 ounces uncooked pasta (gluten-free if needed): Penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti all work beautifully here.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing garlic and tomatoes, bringing silkiness to the sauce.
2 cloves garlic, minced or grated: Infuses a lovely aromatic base for the tomato sauce.
2 cups halved cherry tomatoes: Burst with sweetness and soften quickly, perfect for quick sauce-making.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves: Fresh basil brightens the dish with its classic herbaceous fragrance.
3 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish that brings depth to the pasta.
Balsamic glaze and extra chopped basil for garnish (optional): Takes presentation and flavor to the next level with a glossy touch and fresh pop of color.

How to Make Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

This step is where the magic of balsamic grilled chicken begins. Toss your chicken breasts into a freezer bag along with balsamic vinegar, pesto, honey, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Seal it tight and massage the marinade into the chicken, ensuring every inch is coated. Letting it rest for at least an hour—or even overnight if you have the time—allows those beautiful flavors to truly soak in and tenderize the meat. Patience here equals juicy, flavorful chicken that will shine in every bite.

Step 2: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to around 400 degrees Fahrenheit and brush or spray the grates to prevent sticking. Grill the marinated chicken breasts about 7 to 8 minutes on one side until you see lovely grill marks. Flip and continue cooking for another 6 to 8 minutes depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure you hit the safe internal temp of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Once off the grill, let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes to keep all those juices locked in before slicing into tender strips.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While your chicken is doing its thing, bring salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Before you drain, scoop out about half a cup of the pasta water and set it aside. This starchy liquid is a hidden gem that will help create a silky sauce when tossed back with the pasta and tomato mixture.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

Heat olive oil in the pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic, cooking just for 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn! Toss in halved cherry tomatoes, season with salt, fresh ground pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle warmth. Let them sauté for several minutes until they soften and start releasing their lovely juices, creating a fresh, juicy sauce base.

Step 5: Toss Together Pasta and Basil

Stir in the chopped fresh basil to the tomato-garlic mixture for a fresh punch of flavor. Return the drained pasta to the pan along with reserved pasta water. Toss everything together gently to coat the noodles in that vibrant tomato basil sauce. Add more pasta water as needed if you want a looser sauce that clings beautifully to every bite.

Step 6: Assemble and Garnish

Plate your tomato basil pasta in generous portions, then lay the sliced balsamic grilled chicken right on top. Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese for a savory finish, drizzle balsamic glaze if you’re feeling fancy, and add extra chopped basil to brighten the dish visually and in flavor. Voilà, you have a dish that tastes as incredible as it looks!

How to Serve Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe

A white bowl filled with three layers of food is placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer consists of light brown twisted rotini pasta. On top of the pasta are medium-sized pieces of grilled chicken with dark brown char marks and a golden inside. Scattered around the chicken and pasta are bright red cooked cherry tomatoes, some whole and some broken. The dish is sprinkled with white grated cheese and small bits of fresh green basil. A silver fork rests on the right side of the bowl with the handle visible. A wooden bowl with white shredded cheese sits above and to the left of the main bowl, with a few grains spilled on the surface. A fresh green basil leaf lies on the marbled surface both above the bowl and near the bottom right corner. A white cloth napkin peeks in at the bottom left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes bring your dish to life, so don’t skimp here. Extra chopped basil lends an herbaceous perfume that enhances every forkful. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a glossy, tangy sweet contrast that’s both pretty and delicious. For a finishing touch, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese offers a lovely salty snap.

Side Dishes

This meal stands strong on its own but pairing it with crisp green salads or lightly roasted vegetables balances the richness nicely. Think lightly dressed arugula or a crunchy cucumber salad to add fresh, refreshing textures. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread also makes a lovely companion for soaking up the savory juices at the bottom of your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress guests, serve the pasta piled high in shallow bowls with the balsamic grilled chicken artistically fanned on top. Drizzle extra olive oil and balsamic glaze in a zigzag pattern around the plate for a restaurant-worthy touch. Even layering the chicken underneath the pasta for surprise bites or serving it family-style with fresh basil scattered across the table adds charm and fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, pack any leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate. The balsamic grilled chicken pairs well with the tomato basil pasta even the next day, and the flavors tend to meld beautifully with time. Just keep the garnish separate to keep fresh herbs looking vibrant.

Freezing

This Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe freezes best without the fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, which you can add after reheating. Freeze portions in sealed freezer containers for up to 2 months. To maintain the best texture in the pasta, reheat gently and avoid overcooking the noodles during initial prep if possible.

Reheating

For a fail-safe reheat, gently warm your leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to revive the sauce’s silkiness. Cover the pan to keep moisture in and avoid drying out the grilled chicken. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between, until evenly heated through. Finish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan for that just-cooked feel.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! While boneless skinless chicken breasts are perfect for even grilling, you can also use thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they’re fully cooked but not dry.

Is it okay to substitute dried basil for fresh?

Fresh basil is key for that bright, herbaceous lift in this dish, but if you’re in a pinch, dried basil can work. Use about one-third the amount of dried basil and add it during cooking to release its flavor. Just know the overall freshness won’t be as vibrant.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply swap out regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. Many brands hold up well when cooked al dente and taste delicious tossed with the fresh tomato basil sauce and grilled chicken.

Can I make the balsamic grilled chicken ahead of time?

Yes, marinate and grill the chicken a day ahead, then refrigerate it. Reheat gently before slicing or serve cold atop pasta for a tasty, quick meal option. The flavors often deepen the next day, making it even better.

What’s the best way to get a good sear on the chicken?

Preheat your grill properly and oil the grates well to prevent sticking. Don’t move the chicken too soon; let it develop those nice grill marks before flipping. This locks in flavor and juiciness perfectly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe—it combines fresh, vibrant ingredients with simple techniques to create a meal that feels both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. So go ahead, gather those fresh ingredients, fire up your grill or stove, and treat yourself to a dish that tastes like a warm hug on a plate. You’re going to love every bite!