Ah, bruschetta chicken—a dish that transports me straight to a sun-drenched Italian countryside, where the air is filled with the aroma of fresh basil and ripe tomatoes. It’s like a culinary hug, both vibrant and comforting, promising an explosion of flavors with every bite. And while it’s easy to prepare, the taste is anything but ordinary—perfect for a Wednesday night dinner that feels like a celebration.
Steps
- Prepare the bruschetta by combining finely diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped shallot, and basil in a bowl. Add half of the salt, pepper, and olive oil, then mix well and adjust the seasoning if needed. Set this mixture aside.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with the remaining salt and pepper. Heat the rest of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned.
- Once the chicken is cooked, place a slice of mozzarella cheese on each piece. Cover the skillet with a lid to allow the cheese to melt, then remove the skillet from the heat.
- To finish, top each chicken breast with a generous spoonful of the prepared bruschetta. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving. Enjoy your Bruschetta Chicken with your choice of sides.
Ingredients
- 1 cup finely diced tomatoes (such as Roma tomatoes)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 shallot, minced
- 3 leaves fresh basil, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- ½ teaspoon salt, or as needed
- ½ teaspoon pepper, or as needed
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup balsamic glaze
Nutritional Values
Calories: 996kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 76g | Fat: 60g | Saturated Fat: 20g | Cholesterol: 236mg | Sodium: 2148mg | Potassium: 1360mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 2156IU | Vitamin C: 28mg | Calcium: 600mg | Iron: 4mg
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of cheese for Bruschetta Chicken?
- Absolutely! While mozzarella is a popular choice for its meltiness, you can also try provolone or Monterey Jack as great alternatives.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with Bruschetta Chicken?
- This dish pairs well with various sides like simple rice, steamed vegetables, or a sliced baguette. For more options, consider cauliflower rice, garlic herb roasted carrots, or Parmesan garlic roasted potatoes.
- How should I store leftovers of Bruschetta Chicken?
- It’s best to keep the chicken and bruschetta separate. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, use the microwave or the oven by baking the chicken at 400°F for about 10 minutes.
- Can I freeze Bruschetta Chicken?
- The chicken can be frozen for up to 4 months in an airtight container or freezer bag. However, the bruschetta is best kept fresh as freezing can cause the tomatoes to become watery and mushy.
- What type of tomatoes are recommended for the bruschetta topping?
- Roma (plum) tomatoes are preferred for their flavor and texture, making them an excellent choice for bruschetta.
Tips
- Use high-quality crusty bread to soak up the flavorful pan juices and extra bruschetta, creating a delicious accompaniment to the dish.
- For added flavor, consider using fresh basil in the bruschetta mixture and adjust the garlic quantity to your preference for an extra kick.
- Store the chicken and bruschetta separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
- When reheating, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 400°F for about 10 minutes to ensure it’s heated through without drying out.
Equipment
- Large Skillet with Lid – This is essential for cooking the chicken and melting the cheese.
- Balsamic Glaze – While not equipment, this ingredient might not be a staple in every kitchen and can be purchased ready-made.
