August 28, 2024
Review RecipeBruschetta Chicken
Table of Contents
- Bruschetta Chicken Ingredients
- Substitutions and Additions for Chicken with Bruschetta
- How To Make This Bruschetta Chicken Recipe
- Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken Troubleshooting Tips
- How To Serve Chicken Breast Bruschetta
- How To Store Bruschetta Chicken
- Why This Bruschetta Chicken Is The Best
- Bruschetta Chicken Frequently Asked Questions
- More Italian Inspired Recipes You’ll Love
- JUMP TO RECIPE
If you’re looking for a dish that effortlessly combines freshness and richness, our bruschetta chicken is the perfect answer. Each bite features juicy, seasoned chicken cutlets topped with a vibrant tomato bruschetta mixture and creamy melted mozzarella.
This combination delivers a burst of flavors that delivers both a comfort food dish and a refreshing lightness. Using only the freshest ingredients, we’ve crafted a recipe that brings the bright flavors of Tuscany to your dinner table.
What sets this Italian bruschetta chicken apart is our careful selection of ingredients and attention to detail in preparation. We chose Roma tomatoes for their meaty texture and low seed count, ensuring the bruschetta topping remains vibrant and not too watery. Pairing this with fresh mozzarella provides just the right amount of creaminess, perfectly balancing the acidity of the tomatoes and the tang of the balsamic glaze.
Our test kitchen team has spent countless hours perfecting this dish, so you can be sure that every step has been tried and tested for optimal flavor and texture.
At Spaceships and Laser Beams, we pride ourselves on our dedication to quality and authenticity in every recipe we share. Our recipe for bruschetta chicken has been crafted with precision and care, drawing from over a decade of experience in recipe development.
With our step-by-step instructions, home cooks can confidently recreate this dish at home, knowing they’re following a recipe that has been expertly refined to deliver exceptional taste every time.
Bruschetta Chicken Ingredients
This bruschetta with chicken recipe brings together simple, fresh ingredients to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
With the perfect balance of juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, this meal is a great choice for a weeknight dinner or even a special occasion.
You’ll need:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breast cutlets, about ¾ inch thickness
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided, 2 tablespoons for chicken and 1 tablespoon for tomato bruschetta mixture
- 3 teaspoons finely minced garlic, divided, 2 teaspoons for the chicken and 1 teaspoon for the tomato bruschetta mixture
- 1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning blend
- ¾ teaspoon salt, divided, ½ teaspoon for the chicken and ¼ teaspoon for the tomato bruschetta mixture
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups Roma tomatoes, diced into ¼-½ inch sized pieces, approximately 4 large tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons minced shallot
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- 8-ounce ball fresh mozzarella, cut into ¼ inch thick slices
Substitutions and Additions for Chicken with Bruschetta
You can easily customize this bruschetta chicken recipe, but keep in mind, substitutions may alter the taste and texture, so use them at your own discretion.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: If you don’t have chicken breast cutlets, you can make bruschetta chicken thighs. Thighs offer a slightly richer flavor and can be more forgiving if overcooked. Be sure to adjust cooking time, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Garlic: If you’re out of fresh garlic, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder can be used for each teaspoon of minced garlic. Garlic powder provides a more subtle flavor, so it’s a good option if you prefer a milder taste.
Italian Herb Seasoning Blend: Create your own blend with dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. You can customize the mix to match your taste preferences or use any Italian seasoning mix you have on hand.
Roma Tomatoes: If Roma tomatoes are not available, use cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes. These tomatoes are typically sweeter and less watery, making them a good alternative. Dice them into small pieces to match the consistency of Roma tomatoes.
Shallot: About 1 ½ tablespoons of red onion can be used instead of shallots. Red onions have a stronger flavor, so we suggest you use less.
Fresh Basil: Dried basil can substitute fresh basil, but use only 1 teaspoon, as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor. Alternatively, fresh parsley can provide a different but still fresh taste.
Fresh Mozzarella: Regular mozzarella or even provolone can be used if fresh mozzarella isn’t available. While they won’t have the same creamy texture, they will still melt well over the chicken.
Balsamic Glaze: You can use a homemade balsamic glaze if you prefer.
How To Make This Bruschetta Chicken Recipe
Making this chicken bruschetta recipe at home is like bringing a taste of Italy into your kitchen. It’s a simple, rustic dish that combines classic flavors for a comforting and sophisticated dinner. This helpful guide will walk you through each step. Our photos and pro tips will help guide you, too.
STEP ONE: Begin by placing the chicken breast cutlets in a large, shallow dish. Mix two tablespoons of olive oil, two teaspoons of minced garlic, Italian herb seasoning, half a teaspoon of salt, and a quarter teaspoon of black pepper, then pour over the chicken.
Toss to ensure each cutlet is evenly coated. This marinade flavors the chicken and helps keep it moist and tender during cooking.
PRO TIP: If you have time, you can make this mixture ahead and marinate the chicken covered in the fridge for a few hours.
STEP TWO: In a medium bowl, combine the diced Roma tomatoes, minced shallot, chopped fresh basil, the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, the last teaspoon of minced garlic, and a quarter teaspoon of salt. Stir well to mix.
STEP THREE: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and all the marinade from the dish.
STEP FOUR: Cook for a few minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, ensuring each side gets a nice sear for flavor and texture.
PRO TIP: Avoid overcooking the chicken so it stays juicy. You can use a meat thermometer to test for doneness. When the temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reads 165°F, it’s ready.
STEP FIVE: Reduce the heat to low and top each chicken cutlet with two slices of fresh mozzarella, or enough mozzarella to cover the chicken. Cover the pan with the lid and allow the cheese to melt.
STEP SIX: Once the cheese has melted, remove the lid and turn off the heat to the pan.
STEP SEVEN: Spoon the cold tomato bruschetta mixture generously over the melty mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken pieces.
STEP EIGHT: Carefully transfer the cooked chicken cutlets to a serving plate. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and acidity, then, if you would like, garnish with additional slices of fresh basil for a pop of color and freshness.
Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken Troubleshooting Tips
Here are some helpful pro tips from our recipe testers to make this bruschetta chicken recipe even easier to cook:
- Preheat Your Skillet: Make sure the skillet is well-heated before adding the chicken. This helps in getting a nice sear, so your chicken is juicier.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the skillet. This ensures each cutlet gets a proper sear and cooks evenly.
- Rest the Chicken: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
- Adjust Heat as Needed: If the chicken is browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium. You want the chicken to cook through without burning the outside.
- Cover the Skillet: When melting the mozzarella, covering the skillet helps the cheese melt evenly and faster without overcooking the chicken.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken is no longer pink in the center. If you’re unsure, cut into the thickest part of the chicken to check.
How To Serve Chicken Breast Bruschetta
Now that you’ve mastered this easy bruschetta chicken recipe, let’s talk about how to make it even more delightful on your table.
Like all classic Tuscan dishes, this chicken is versatile and can be dressed up or down to fit any occasion, from casual dinners to elegant gatherings.
Classic Pairing: Serve your bruschetta chicken on a bed of garlic sautéed spinach or a crisp Caesar salad. Add a side of roasted baby potatoes or garlic bread toast for a comforting and hearty meal.
Make a Tasty Sandwich: Turn the bruschetta chicken into a flavorful chicken sandwich by placing it on a toasted ciabatta roll. Top with additional bruschetta mixture and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Pair it with a side of sweet potato fries or a simple coleslaw for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
With Pasta: For a quick weeknight meal, serve your chicken with a side of angel hair pasta, or alongside our classic 20-minute one-pot pasta recipe topped with parmesan cheese. For a lighter option, consider serving with a side of buttered zucchini noodles.
Meal Prep Idea: Use the bruschetta chicken as a base for meal prepping. Slice the cooked chicken and store it in airtight containers with a side of quinoa and steamed vegetables. This makes for quick and easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Pairing Recommendations: For a complete meal, serve balsamic bruschetta chicken with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, strawberry lemonade or a party punch make refreshing options.
This comfortable dinner is perfect for a casual meal with friends, especially on a summer evening. It’s perfect for when you want to impress without much fuss. The simple flavors are a great way to introduce more vegetables into your weeknight family dinners, and it even fits in well with a Sunday brunch menu or holiday gathering.
MORE CHICKEN RECIPES
How To Store Bruschetta Chicken
Bruschetta chicken is not only delicious but it’s a great recipe for meal planning. If you need to make this recipe ahead of time or store leftovers, follow these guidelines to keep it fresh and ready to enjoy.
MAKE AHEAD: To prepare bruschetta chicken in advance, follow the recipe steps up to the point of cooking. Once the bruschetta mixture is made and the chicken is marinated, cover them tightly in separate containers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
This will allow the flavors to meld and save time on the day you plan to serve it.
IN THE FRIDGE: Store any leftover bruschetta chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to four days, but the longer it sits, the more the bruschetta may become soggy and liquidy.
Make sure the container is sealed properly to prevent the chicken from drying out or absorbing other odors from the fridge.
IN THE FREEZER: To freeze bruschetta chicken, we recommend removing the bruschetta topping. Place the chicken in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It will keep well for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, make some fresh bruschetta, and heat as directed below.
REHEATING: For reheating, you can use several methods. If you’re using an oven, preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15 minutes or until the chicken is heated through.
In the microwave, reheat on medium power in one to two minute intervals, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
Why This Bruschetta Chicken Is The Best
This easy chicken bruschetta is a standout dish not only for its straightforward preparation but also for its ability to deliver a burst of flavor with every bite.
Here’s why we think you’ll love this bruschetta chicken:
Easy Prep and Cook Time: This recipe only requires about 30 minutes of your time, so you get a delicious, satisfying meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of juicy tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and creamy mozzarella makes every bite refreshing and full of vibrant flavors.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or preparing a meal for a special occasion, this bruschetta chicken fits right in, adding a touch of elegance without the fuss.
Perfect for Meal Prep: It’s easy to make ahead and store, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or meal planning.
Bruschetta Chicken Frequently Asked Questions
The chicken cutlets should be approximately ¾ inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and remain juicy. You can cut them or pound them to right size using a meat mallet.
Yes, grilling the chicken is a great alternative. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and apply the bruschetta mixture after grilling.
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is no longer pink in the center.
Yes, you can add other vegetables like diced bell peppers or onions to the bruschetta mixture for extra flavor and texture.
This dish pairs well with a simple side dish like a salad, roasted vegetables or green beans, or a simple pasta. You can also serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
This easy bruschetta chicken recipe combines juicy chicken with a fresh, savory topping for a delicious meal that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, bringing a touch of gourmet to your table without the fuss.
More Italian Inspired Recipes You’ll Love
- Olive Oil Bread Dip
- Chicken Cacciatore
- Tuscan Chicken Pasta
- Baked Italian Sausage
- Asiago Tortellini Alfredo With Grilled Chicken
Bruschetta Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breast cutlets, about ¾ inch thickness (approximately 1 ½ to 2 pounds)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided into 2 tablespoons for chicken and 1 tablespoon for the fresh tomato bruschetta mixture
- 3 teaspoons finely minced garlic, divided into 2 teaspoons for the chicken and 1 teaspoon for the tomato bruschetta mixture
- 1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning blend
- ¾ teaspoon salt, divided into ½ teaspoon for the chicken and ¼ teaspoon for the tomato bruschetta mixture
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups Roma tomatoes, diced into ¼ to ½ inch sized pieces (approximately 4 large tomatoes)
- 3 tablespoons minced shallot
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, cut into ¼ inch thick slices
Garnish
- Balsamic glaze
- Fresh basil, thinly sliced
Instructions
- To a large shallow dish, add the boneless skinless chicken breast cutlets, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 teaspoons minced garlic, Italian herb seasoning, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Toss to evenly coat the chicken cutlets with the oil and seasonings. Set aside.
- To a large bowl, add the diced Roma tomatoes, minced shallot, chopped fresh basil, remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, remaining 1 teaspoon minced garlic, and remaining ¼ teaspoon salt. Stir to combine the homemade bruschetta and set aside while the chicken cooks.
- Heat a large (12-inch) skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken cutlets and all the seasoned olive oil to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side or until the chicken cutlets are golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Turn the heat to the skillet down to low, top each of the browned chicken cutlets with 2 slices of fresh mozzarella (or enough slices to cover the majority of the chicken cutlet), then cover the skillet with the lid for 2-3 minutes until the mozzarella cheese has melted.
- Once the cheese has melted, remove the lid and turn off the heat to the skillet.
- Top each of the chicken cutlets with approximately ⅓ cup of the tomato bruschetta mixture.
- Transfer the bruschetta chicken to a serving platter and garnish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and additional, thinly sliced fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Preheat Your Skillet: Make sure the skillet is well-heated before adding the chicken. This helps in getting a nice sear, so your chicken is juicier.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the skillet. This ensures each cutlet gets a proper sear and cooks evenly.
- Rest the Chicken: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
- Adjust Heat as Needed: If the chicken is browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium. You want the chicken to cook through without burning the outside.
- Cover the Skillet: When melting the mozzarella, covering the skillet helps the cheese melt evenly and faster without overcooking the chicken.
Comments
Gloria says
What an amazing and delicious dinner idea!
Laura R Weart says
Easy to make and wonderful with a nice bottle of wine!!