Description
Chicken Bruschetta Bake is a quick and easy dish that brings together classic bruschetta flavors with baked chicken. Juicy, seasoned chicken is topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and melted cheese for a delicious Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Bruschetta Topping:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic.
- Place the chicken in the baking dish, spaced evenly.
Step 2: Make the Bruschetta Topping
- In a bowl, mix cherry tomatoes, basil, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil.
- Stir and let sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 3: Assemble the Bake
- Spoon the bruschetta mixture over the chicken.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Add breadcrumbs if using.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Notes
- For extra crispiness: Add breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan before baking.
- Make it low-carb: Skip the breadcrumbs.
- Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free cheese or omit it entirely.
- Best way to store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired