This Cheesy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken is a tasty meal that combines juicy chicken with fresh tomatoes and melted mozzarella. It’s topped with a sprinkle of basil for a burst of flavor!
Who wouldn’t want to bite into cheesy goodness? I love serving this with a side salad—it makes the perfect dinner, and the whole family enjoys it. Yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless is best for easy cooking and eating. If you’re short on time, thin-cut chicken cutlets or even turkey breasts work well here too.
Fresh Mozzarella: This cheese is delightful when melted! If you can’t find it, try using provolone or even shredded mozzarella. They both melt nicely and taste great.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes give a light and fresh taste. Roma tomatoes are a good choice, but cherry tomatoes are yummy too! If in a pinch, canned diced tomatoes will work as an alternative—just drain them first.
Basil: Fresh basil adds vibrant flavor. Dried basil can be used if you don’t have fresh, but cut the quantity in half since dried is more potent. Alternatively, parsley or oregano can substitute in a pinch.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is important! You want it juicy and not undercooked. Here’s how to achieve that:
- First, sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side. This builds flavor and locks in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (75°C) is the safe temperature.
- If you don’t have a thermometer, make a small cut into the thickest part of the chicken. If the juices run clear, it’s done.
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the juices settle in!
Cheesy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 cup fresh diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20-25 minutes to cook in the oven. So, in total, you’re looking at about 35-40 minutes to enjoy this cheesy and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help cook the chicken nicely while melting the cheese perfectly.
2. Make the Bruschetta Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, and balsamic vinegar. Give it a good mix and let it sit for a bit so all those fresh flavors can meld together—this will be your topping!
3. Season the Chicken
Take your chicken breasts and season them on both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This will add so much flavor to the chicken while it cooks.
4. Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step creates a tasty crust!
5. Add the Bruschetta and Cheese
Once the chicken is seared, take the skillet off the heat. Spoon that delicious bruschetta tomato mixture over each chicken breast. Top it off with slices of fresh mozzarella cheese. Yum!
6. Bake to Perfection
Now, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through (reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C) and the cheese to be melted and bubbly—perfectly cheesy!
7. Drizzle & Garnish
Once done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top for that extra flavor punch. If you like, sprinkle some chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
8. Serve & Enjoy
Serve your delectable Cheesy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken hot, alongside your favorite green veggies, like steamed green beans for a complete meal. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Bon Appétit! 🌟
FAQ for Cheesy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for this dish, you can use thin-cut chicken cutlets or even chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure it’s cooked through!
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Mozzarella?
If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, you can substitute with shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese. Both options melt beautifully and will provide that cheesy goodness you’re looking for!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or oven, reheating gently to maintain the texture and flavor of the dish.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and bruschetta mixture a day in advance. Just keep everything separate in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, sear the chicken and add the topping before baking! This saves time and still gives you a delicious meal.
