bruschetta chicken pasta salad

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Salad

Ingredients

• 1 pound (500 g) thin spaghetti pasta, (dry weight)
• 1 pound (500 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, (2 large breasts)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped (about 1/3 of a red onion)
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, (adjust to your tastes)
• 8 roma tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more to serve
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil or parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Balsamic glaze to serve (optional) -- I use store bought

Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions; Drain and rinse in cold water. Transfer to a large bowl; set aside.
2. While the pasta is boiling, season chicken with the herbs, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Heat 1 teaspoon of oil on in a grill pan or skillet, and sear chicken breasts over medium-high heat until browned on both sides and cooked through (about 6 minutes each side). Remove from pan; set aside and allow to rest.
3. Add the remaining olive oil to the same hot pan / skillet. When hot, sauté the garlic and red onion until garlic is fragrant (about 1 minute). Turn off heat. 

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