When you’re craving something light yet satisfying, packed with fresh flavors, and perfect for warm-weather meals, this Chicken Bruschetta Pasta Salad is the answer. Combining the vibrant taste of classic Italian bruschetta with tender grilled chicken and al dente pasta, this dish is a crowd-pleasing, meal-prep-friendly, and versatile option for picnics, potlucks, or quick weeknight dinners.
With juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, garlic, and a tangy balsamic dressing, every bite delivers the essence of summer. The addition of grilled chicken makes it a protein-packed, balanced meal, while the pasta keeps it hearty enough to serve as a main dish or a standout side.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Bursting with fresh flavors – Ripe tomatoes, basil, and garlic shine.
✅ Light but filling – Lean chicken and fiber-rich pasta keep it satisfying.
✅ Meal-prep friendly – Stays fresh for days and tastes even better as flavors meld.
✅ Versatile – Serve chilled or at room temperature, great for gatherings.
✅ Easy to customize – Add mozzarella, avocado, or swap in your favorite pasta.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salad:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (farfalle, penne, or rotini work well)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded (grilled, rotisserie, or poached)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- ½ small red onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tbsp capers (optional, for a briny kick)
For the Balsamic Dressing:
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls
- 1 avocado, diced
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
2. Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, tomatoes, basil, red onion, garlic, and Parmesan (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
4. Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Before serving, garnish with extra basil, Parmesan, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Why This Recipe Works
1. The Perfect Flavor Balance
The balsamic dressing adds a tangy-sweet contrast to the fresh tomatoes and basil, while the garlic and Parmesan deepen the savory notes.
2. Texture Variety
- Al dente pasta holds up well.
- Juicy tomatoes and crisp onions add freshness.
- Tender chicken makes it hearty.
3. Make-Ahead Magic
Unlike leafy salads, this pasta salad gets better as it sits, making it ideal for meal prep.
Tips for the Best Pasta Salad
🔹 Salt your pasta water well – It’s the only chance to season the pasta itself.
🔹 Use high-quality balsamic vinegar – The dressing makes the dish!
🔹 Don’t overdress – Start with half, then add more as needed.
🔹 Add delicate ingredients (like avocado) last – Prevents browning/mushiness.
Serving Suggestions
🍽 As a main dish – Pair with crusty bread or grilled veggies.
🧺 For picnics or BBQs – Stays fresh for hours unrefrigerated.
🥗 Lighter option – Serve over mixed greens or spinach.
Variations to Try
🧀 Caprese-style – Add fresh mozzarella and a splash of pesto.
🌱 Vegan version – Skip chicken, add chickpeas or white beans.
🍋 Lemon-herb – Swap balsamic for lemon vinaigrette.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Fridge: Keeps for 3-4 days (store dressing separately if prepping ahead).
- Freezing: Not recommended (pasta gets mushy).
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Bruschetta Pasta Salad is summer in a bowl—bright, fresh, and effortlessly delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping lunches, it’s a guaranteed hit.