Introduction
Bruschetta Chicken is a delightful dish that combines juicy, seasoned chicken breasts topped with a refreshing bruschetta mixture and a gooey layer of cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With vibrant flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to impress your family or guests.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5-2 lbs)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 Roma tomatoes, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
In this simple yet delicious recipe, the chicken is seasoned to perfection and baked until tender. The fresh tomatoes and basil create a vibrant topping that pairs beautifully with the savory cheeses. Serve this Bruschetta Chicken with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
– In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried basil, and dried oregano.
– Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then evenly season both sides with the spice mixture.
Sear the Chicken:
– Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
– Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden-brown crust.
Prepare the Bruschetta Topping:
– In a medium bowl, combine the diced Roma tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, and balsamic vinegar. Mix well and set aside.
Assemble and Bake:
– Once the chicken is seared, remove the skillet from heat.
– Top each chicken breast with a generous portion of the bruschetta mixture.
– Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the bruschetta-topped chicken.
– Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
– Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
– Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top before serving.
– Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
Notes
Chicken Breasts:
– Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
Olive Oil:
– Extra virgin olive oil can enhance the flavor but regular olive oil is fine to use as well.
Cheese Variations:
– Feel free to mix different types of cheese according to your preference for added flavor.
Leftovers:
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions:
– This dish pairs well with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Chicken
Start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with a mixture of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried basil, and dried oregano, and rub them with olive oil for added flavor and moisture.
Searing the Chicken
Use a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat to sear the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side, creating a golden-brown crust that adds depth to the dish.
Preparing the Bruschetta Topping
Combine diced Roma tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, and balsamic vinegar in a medium bowl to create a fresh and flavorful topping for the chicken.
Assembling and Baking
Once the chicken is seared, remove it from the heat and top each breast with the bruschetta mixture. Add a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, then bake in the oven until the chicken reaches the appropriate internal temperature and the cheese is bubbly.
Serving
After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top and garnish with fresh basil before serving for an appealing presentation.
FAQ
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C).
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute with different cheeses like feta or cheddar, but mozzarella and Parmesan provide a great flavor and texture combination.
What can I serve with Bruschetta Chicken?
This dish pairs well with side salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prepare the bruschetta topping in advance and assemble before baking for convenience.
Is it possible to grill the chicken instead of baking?
Yes, grilling the chicken is a great alternative. Just ensure it is cooked thoroughly and finish with the bruschetta and cheese as directed.
Conclusion
This Bruschetta Chicken recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken breasts topped with a fresh and vibrant bruschetta mixture. The melted cheeses add a rich creaminess, while the balsamic glaze elevates the dish with its sweet and tangy flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pesto Chicken
Swap the bruschetta topping for a layer of basil pesto and top with sun-dried tomatoes and mozzarella for a Mediterranean twist.
Caprese Stuffed Chicken
Stuff each chicken breast with mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, and basil before baking. Drizzle with balsamic reduction for an elegant touch.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Skip the bruschetta and instead coat the chicken in a mix of garlic and Parmesan cheese before baking for a simple yet flavorful dish.
Italian Herb Chicken
Marinate the chicken in Italian dressing before searing and bake with a topping of roasted bell peppers and onions for a hearty meal.
BBQ Chicken with Mozzarella
Top the chicken breasts with your favorite BBQ sauce and then add mozzarella for a tangy and cheesy flavor combination.
