Balsamic Chicken and Pasta

Recipe View Prepare the Balsamic Marinade: In a food processor or blender, combine the minced garlic and 1/3 of the fresh basil leaves. Pulse until finely minced. Add 1/2 cup of olive oil and process until the mixture turns a light yellow color with flecks of basil. Incorporate 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar and process until just combined. (Prep time: 10 minutes)

Recipe View Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag. Add 1 tablespoon of salt, 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground black pepper, and the prepared basil marinade. Squeeze out any excess air, seal the bag tightly, and toss to ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, turning occasionally to ensure even marination. (Marinating time: 2+ hours)

Recipe View Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C). (Prep time: 5 minutes)

Recipe View Sear and Bake the Chicken: In a large skillet over high heat, brown the marinated chicken breasts for 4 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer the seared chicken to a large baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven until cooked through, approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). (Cook time: 20-25 minutes)

Recipe View Slice and Rest Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and slice it into 1/4-inch strips. Return the sliced chicken to the baking dish to absorb the flavorful cooking juices. Keep warm until ready to serve. (Prep time: 5 minutes)

Recipe View Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is baking, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente, about 11 minutes. Drain the pasta well. Stir in the sliced chicken and the accumulated juices from the baking dish. (Cook time: 15 minutes)

Recipe View Prepare the Tomato-Basil Salad: Thinly slice the remaining 2/3 of the basil leaves. In a large serving bowl, combine the sliced basil with the halved grape tomatoes. Drizzle with the remaining 1/4 cup of olive oil and 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. (Prep time: 10 minutes)

Recipe View Combine and Serve: Top the basil and tomato mixture with the pasta, chicken, and sauce. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients. Serve immediately and enjoy! (Prep time: 5 minutes)