Description
Bruschetta chicken delivers a fresh Mediterranean-inspired delight that perfectly balances zesty tomato blend with juicy grilled protein. Classic Italian flavors dance together, creating a light and elegant meal that satisfies both quick weeknight dinner cravings and sophisticated palate preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Tomato Base:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
Bread and Topping:
- 2 baguette slices
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
Seasoning and Extras:
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F, preparing a baking dish that will comfortably accommodate the chicken breasts.
- Slice cherry tomatoes into halves, finely chop fresh basil leaves, and mince garlic cloves, creating a vibrant bruschetta mixture.
- Season chicken breasts thoroughly with salt and black pepper, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, searing chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and developing a crisp exterior.
- Transfer seared chicken to the prepared baking dish, generously topping each breast with the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and chopped basil.
- Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the chicken and tomato arrangement, distributing the tangy liquid evenly.
- Sprinkle parmesan cheese across the top of each chicken breast, creating a rich, melting layer.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and cheese becomes slightly golden and bubbly.
- While chicken bakes, lightly toast baguette slices until crisp and golden at the edges.
- Remove chicken from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve chicken immediately, accompanied by toasted baguette slices, garnishing with additional fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Optimize chicken thickness by gently pounding breasts to uniform 1/2-inch thickness for even cooking and tender results.
- Enhance flavor by marinating chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking to boost moisture and taste.
- Create a gluten-free version by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or omitting bread entirely, focusing on the protein and fresh tomato topping.
- Experiment with alternative proteins like turkey breast or plant-based alternatives to accommodate different dietary preferences while maintaining the bruschetta essence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg