This Easy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken pairs juicy chicken with fresh tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. It’s colorful, tasty, and perfect for any night of the week!
I love how quick this dish comes together. Just bake, top with the good stuff, and enjoy a dinner that feels fancy without the fuss. Who doesn’t love that? 🍅🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use chicken thighs. They stay juicier, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as they may take a little longer.
Tomatoes: Fresh Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work best for this dish due to their flavor and texture. If tomatoes aren’t in season, you might use canned diced tomatoes, just be sure to drain them well.
Fresh Basil: This adds a fragrant touch to the dish. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil is a good backup. Use about one teaspoon of dried basil instead of the fresh, but add it earlier in the cooking process to allow its flavor to develop.
Cheese: I recommend using shredded mozzarella for its melting quality. Fresh mozzarella can also be used, just slice it and lay it on top. Both will give you a creamy texture, but fresh offers a richer taste!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Always Juicy?
Cooking chicken to perfection can be tricky, but there are some tricks to keep it juicy. First, don’t overcook it! Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Second, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before cutting into it. This helps retain moisture.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before cooking.
- Heat oil to medium-high to get a good sear on the outside, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Remember to check the temperature toward the end of baking; better safe than sorry!
With these tips, your Easy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken will be a hit every time!
Easy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh Roma or vine-ripened)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or fresh mozzarella slices)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. So, in just about half an hour, you’ll have a wonderful meal ready to impress your family or guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly while baking.
2. Season the Chicken:
Next, season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This will add flavor right to the meat.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown. This helps to lock in the juices!
4. Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
While the chicken is cooking, mix together the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl. Give it a good stir and set aside.
5. Add Toppings:
Once the chicken is nicely browned, spoon the fresh tomato mixture evenly over each chicken breast. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. It’s going to melt beautifully!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer your skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for around 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You want the cheese to be melted and bubbly as well!
7. Finish with Balsamic Glaze:
Take the skillet out of the oven and drizzle balsamic glaze over each chicken breast for that perfect finishing touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, it’s time to dig in! Serve this tasty dish with your favorite side, like steamed green beans or a fresh pasta salad. Enjoy!
This Easy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with fresh flavors—making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
FAQ for Easy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken
Can I Use Skin-On Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts if you prefer! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a few extra minutes to cook through. The skin will also add extra flavor and crispiness!
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and the tomato mixture ahead of time. Just refrigerate them separately and combine before baking. It’s best to bake it fresh, but having everything prepped makes it quick and easy on busy nights!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. Adding a touch of fresh basil when serving can refresh the flavors!
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Pair With This Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a simple salad, or over a bed of pasta. For a heartier option, consider serving it with risotto or a garlic bread on the side!
