Bruschetta Chicken

Bruschetta Chicken is a delicious and healthy Italian-inspired dish that combines juicy, golden-brown chicken breasts with a fresh, tangy tomato bruschetta topping, melted mozzarella, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, this meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or whenever you want to impress with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bruschetta Chicken takes the classic flavors of bruschetta—tomatoes, garlic, basil—and pairs them with tender chicken breasts and creamy mozzarella. The dish is elevated with a balsamic glaze for a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The combination of fresh ingredients and easy preparation makes this recipe not only healthy but also a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

4 boneless skinless chicken breast cutlets (approximately 1 ½ – 2 pounds, ¾ inch thickness)
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided (2 tablespoons for chicken, 1 tablespoon for tomato bruschetta mixture)
3 teaspoons finely minced garlic, divided (2 teaspoons for chicken, 1 teaspoon for tomato bruschetta mixture)
1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning blend
¾ teaspoon salt, divided (½ teaspoon for chicken, ¼ teaspoon for tomato bruschetta mixture)
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Tomato Bruschetta Mixture:

2 cups roma tomatoes (approximately 4 large tomatoes, diced into ¼-½ inch pieces)
3 tablespoons minced shallot
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
For the Topping:

8 ounces fresh mozzarella ball, cut into ¼-inch thick slices

For Garnish:

Balsamic glaze (Bertolli brand used)
Fresh basil, thinly sliced

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

In a large shallow dish, combine the chicken breasts, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 teaspoons garlic, Italian herb seasoning, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Set aside.

2. Make the Tomato Bruschetta:

In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, minced shallot, chopped fresh basil, remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic, and remaining ¼ teaspoon salt. Stir to combine and set aside.

3. Cook the Chicken:

Heat a large (12-inch) skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts along with the seasoned olive oil.

Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

4. Add the Mozzarella:

Lower the heat to low. Top each chicken cutlet with 2 slices of fresh mozzarella (or enough to cover the chicken). Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes.

Remove the lid and turn off the heat.

5. Assemble the Dish:

Top each chicken cutlet with approximately ⅓ cup of the tomato bruschetta mixture.

6. Serve:

Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and garnish with balsamic glaze and additional thinly sliced fresh basil.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Kcal: 325 kcal per serving

Variations

• Add a Kick: For a spicy twist, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the bruschetta mixture or add a few slices of jalapeño.

• Herb Swap: Try substituting basil with fresh oregano, parsley, or thyme for a different herbal flavor.

• Make it a Sandwich: Serve the bruschetta chicken in a bun or wrap for a delicious sandwich option.

• Add Veggies: Toss some roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant on top of the chicken for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the fresh mozzarella, but you can freeze the cooked chicken without the topping for up to 2 months. Reheat and add fresh tomato bruschetta before serving.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until heated through. Add fresh mozzarella before reheating for the best texture.

FAQs

1. Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, mozzarella is traditional, but you can use provolone, fontina, or goat cheese as alternatives.

3. Can I use store-bought bruschetta topping?

Yes, you can use store-bought bruschetta or a pre-made tomato topping to save time, but fresh ingredients will give you the best flavor.

4. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for accuracy.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and bruschetta mixture ahead of time. Cook the chicken and assemble the dish just before serving for the best results.

6. What can I serve with Bruschetta Chicken?

Bruschetta Chicken pairs well with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or pasta. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a more filling meal.

7. Can I make this dish without balsamic glaze?

Yes, balsamic glaze is optional but adds a nice tangy sweetness. You can substitute with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or skip it entirely for a lighter version.

8. How do I make the chicken extra tender?

To ensure tender chicken, be sure to cook it to the proper temperature and avoid overcooking it. You can also pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking for more uniform results.

9. Can I make this dish with chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a little longer to cook through.

10. How do I make the bruschetta mixture ahead of time?

You can make the bruschetta mixture up to 1 day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just add it to the chicken right before serving.

Conclusion

Bruschetta Chicken is a light, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that combines the deliciousness of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and balsamic glaze with juicy, perfectly cooked chicken. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy the vibrant flavors of Italy!

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