This Easy Cheesy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken is a tasty dish with juicy chicken topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and gooey mozzarella cheese. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Plus, it’s super quick to make and looks fancy enough for guests. I love serving it with a side salad—makes me feel like a gourmet chef! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook evenly and stay juicy. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for added flavor and moisture.
Cherry Tomatoes: I love using cherry tomatoes for their sweetness and firmness. However, regular tomatoes can work too! Just make sure to seed and dice them well for the best results.
Basil: Fresh basil is key here for that classic bruschetta flavor. If you can’t find fresh basil, dried basil can be a substitute. Just use about one-third the amount since dried herbs are stronger.
Olive Oil: This oil adds richness. If you’re looking for something lighter, feel free to use avocado or canola oil instead. Each brings slightly different flavors but will work well!
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is super melty and delicious. For a creamier texture, you can use slices of fresh mozzarella, but be aware it may add a little more moisture to your dish.
How Do I Get the Chicken Cooked Just Right?
Cooking the chicken to perfection is key! Start by searing the chicken on the stove to lock in moisture and then finish it in the oven. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding the chicken for a nice sear.
- Cook 4-5 minutes per side — you’re aiming for a golden crust, not full cook-through.
- Once you layer on the bruschetta toppings and cheese, transfer the skillet directly to the oven for about 10-12 minutes. This ensures the chicken finishes cooking evenly while the cheese melts beautifully.
- Check the thickest part of the chicken for doneness — it should reach 165°F (74°C) to be safe.
Easy Cheesy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced (or 1 cup regular tomatoes, diced)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or fresh mozzarella slices)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes in total, including cooking time. You’ll have a beautifully cooked dish ready in less than half an hour—perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Oven and Chicken:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, take your chicken breasts and season them with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step adds flavor!
2. Searing the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to get a lovely golden-brown color, but don’t worry if it’s not completely cooked through yet—we’ll finish cooking it in the oven!
3. Making the Bruschetta Topping:
While your chicken is cooking, grab a small bowl and mix together the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, and balsamic vinegar. This fresh mix will turn the chicken into a delicious bruschetta-style dish! Set this aside for later.
4. Assemble the Dish:
After the chicken has seared, carefully remove the skillet from the heat. Now, spoon that delightful tomato bruschetta mixture evenly over each chicken breast. Don’t be shy—make sure each piece has a nice topping. Next, sprinkle or lay slices of mozzarella cheese over the top of the chicken.
5. Baking to Perfection:
Now for the magic! Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to be cooked through and the cheese to be bubbly and melty.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once your kitchen smells amazing and the chicken is cooked to perfection, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Drizzle balsamic glaze over everything for that beautiful finishing touch. Serve your Easy Cheesy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken warm, along with your favorite sides like steamed green beans or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
Happy cooking! This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Cheesy Mozzarella Bruschetta Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and remain juicy during cooking. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through than breasts.
How Can I Make This Recipe Low-Carb?
To keep it low-carb, simply skip the balsamic glaze or use a low-carb alternative. You could also serve the chicken over a bed of sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta or bread.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to freshen up the flavors if needed!
Can I Prepare the Bruschetta Topping in Advance?
Yes! You can make the bruschetta mixture a few hours ahead of time. Just cover it and store it in the fridge, and then add it to the chicken right before baking. This will save you time when you’re ready to cook!
