Yields: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Ingredients:
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Bruschetta Topping:
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (Roma tomatoes are ideal)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Other:
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking sheet (optional)
- Medium bowl
Instructions:
Prep the Chicken:
- If needed, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (approximately ½ – ¾ inch).
- Drizzle chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season both sides with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Make the Bruschetta:
- Combine diced tomatoes, basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Cook the Chicken:
- Stovetop method: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
- Oven method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place seasoned chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Melt the Mozzarella:
- In the last few minutes of cooking, top each chicken breast with a slice of fresh mozzarella.
- Stovetop: Cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt.
- Oven: Place the baking sheet under the broiler briefly to melt the cheese.
Assemble and Serve:
- Top the chicken with a generous portion of the bruschetta mixture.
- Optionally, drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra touch of flavor.
Serve immediately with your favorite sides like:
- Pasta
- Roasted vegetables
- Salad
- Crusty bread
Additional Tips:
- Chicken thickness: Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your chicken breasts.
- Tomato variety: Experiment with different tomato varieties, like cherry or heirloom, for variations in flavor.
- Customize the bruschetta: Add other ingredients like chopped red onion, Kalamata olives, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the bruschetta topping in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a quick and easy dinner.
Enjoy!
