This Easy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken is a tasty dinner that combines juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and melted mozzarella. It’s like a party on a plate!
Plus, it’s super simple to make! I just cook the chicken, top it with the yummy bruschetta, and bake until bubbly. Perfect for impressing friends or for a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs, which can add more flavor.
Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are sweet and add a nice pop of color. If you can’t find them, any ripe tomatoes will do, just chop them smaller to keep the texture consistent.
Fresh Basil: Basil gives an aromatic touch. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil can work too, but use it sparingly as it’s more potent.
Fresh Mozzarella: For that gooey, melty cheese, fresh mozzarella is the best choice. If you’re in a pinch, shredded mozzarella works well, but it won’t be quite the same.
Balsamic Glaze: This adds a sweet-tart flavor. If you don’t have it, a drizzle of regular balsamic vinegar or a balsamic reduction can do just fine!
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken to perfection can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right:
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking.
- Season your chicken well; the salt enhances the flavor.
- When searing, let the chicken sear for about 3-4 minutes without moving it. This creates a nice crust.
- After transferring to the oven, cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have juicy, tender chicken every time!
Easy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced (or 2 medium tomatoes, diced)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making a total of around 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts – this will make them tasty!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Once done, remove from heat.
3. Mix the Bruschetta Topping:
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, and balsamic vinegar. Stir everything together to create a fresh bruschetta mix.
4. Assemble the Chicken:
Now, take that delicious bruschetta mix and spoon it evenly over each chicken breast. Don’t be shy—get a nice layer on each piece!
5. Add Mozzarella:
Place slices of fresh mozzarella cheese over the tomato topping on each chicken breast. This gooey cheese will melt beautifully as the chicken cooks.
6. Bake Until Perfect:
Carefully transfer the skillet into your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
7. Finishing Touches:
Once out of the oven, if you like, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top for extra flavor. Garnish with some fresh basil leaves to make it look beautiful.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm with your favorite veggies or salad on the side. Enjoy this flavorful, juicy chicken dish that combines the classic tastes of bruschetta with melty mozzarella!
FAQ for Easy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for quick cooking, you can also use chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor. Just make sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh basil, you can substitute with dried basil. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. You could also try using other herbs like parsley or oregano, based on your preference.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and bruschetta topping ahead of time. Store the chicken in the refrigerator covered for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply assemble and bake as directed. The flavors will be even better!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
