This Easy Cheesy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken is a tasty dish that packs flavor! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and creamy mozzarella for a delightful bite.
It’s super simple to make, and it always impresses guests! I love serving it with some crusty bread on the side—it’s a perfect match!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are used for their tenderness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, lean turkey or tofu works well too. Also, consider using chicken thighs for extra flavor and juiciness.
Fresh Mozzarella: This cheese melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture. If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, shredded mozzarella or even provolone can do the trick. I often use mozzarella di bufala for a richer taste!
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes bring a lot of brightness. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can substitute well. You could also try cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of sweetness.
Basil: Fresh basil is a must for that classic bruschetta flavor. If you’re allergic or don’t have any, you can use fresh parsley or even dried Italian herbs, but fresh is always best in this dish.
Balsamic Glaze: This adds a sweet tang. If you don’t have it, a drizzle of balsamic vinegar works, or try honey mixed with vinegar for a similar taste. I love making my own glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens.
How Do You Ensure Your Chicken is Juicy and Tender?
To make sure the chicken stays juicy, there are a few key steps to follow. First, don’t overcook it! The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Here’s a tip:
- Start by searing the chicken on medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side; this locks in moisture.
- After adding the topping, bake it at 400°F (200°C) until fully cooked—this keeps the chicken tender.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking—a resting time helps reduce moisture loss.
With these tricks, you’ll have perfectly juicy chicken every time!
Easy Cheesy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
- 1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced (about 2 medium tomatoes)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for bruschetta topping)
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This flavorful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, making a total time of about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a weekday dinner or when you’re hosting friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when you put the chicken in.
2. Prepare the Bruschetta Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, 1 tbsp olive oil, and 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar. Give it a good stir and set this aside to let the flavors meld together.
3. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and season them on both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This is where you add a blast of flavor!
4. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown.
5. Add the Bruschetta Mixture:
Take the skillet off the heat and spoon the bruschetta mixture over each chicken breast. It smells amazing already!
6. Top with Mozzarella:
Now, add the fresh mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast. This will melt beautifully in the oven.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Put the skillet in your preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (you’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C) and the cheese is all melted and bubbly.
8. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze:
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the chicken for that extra zing!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken hot, ideally with some steamed green beans or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious, cheesy bruschetta chicken!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative. They tend to be juicier and richer in flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs might take a bit longer to reach the desired internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, you can use fresh parsley or even spinach for a different flavor profile. Dried Italian herbs work in a pinch, but remember to use them sparingly as they are more potent than fresh herbs.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water if needed to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the bruschetta topping in advance and even season the chicken. Just store them separately in the fridge, and when you’re ready to cook, sear and bake the chicken with the topping for a quick, flavorful meal!
