Grilled Chicken Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes & Herbs

A light, flavorful pasta dish featuring juicy grilled chicken, sweet cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a simple garlic-olive oil sauce.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Pasta

• 12 oz (340 g) penne, fusilli, or spaghetti
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2–3 tbsp reserved pasta water
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Rub the chicken with olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

2. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

3. Prepare the Tomato-Herb Sauce

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes.
4. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to release their juices.

4. Combine

1. Add the drained pasta to the skillet.
2. Toss with the tomatoes and herbs.
3. Add a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.

5. Serve

1. Divide the pasta among serving bowls.
2. Top with sliced grilled chicken.
3. Garnish with extra basil, parsley, and Parmesan.
4. Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh, bright finish.

Optional Add-Ins

• Baby spinach
• Sautéed zucchini
• Roasted bell peppers
• Fresh mozzarella pearls
• Kalamata olives

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

25 minutes

Total Time

40 minutes

Calories

Approximately 500–550 per serving.