Bruschetta Chicken Bake: A Simple, Flavorful Recipe! Recipe
Bruschetta Chicken Bake is a simple and flavorful Italian-inspired main dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with a vibrant mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and an optional balsamic glaze. Perfectly seared on the stovetop and finished in the oven for a deliciously melty and satisfying meal.
- Author: Joe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into large chunks)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Toppings
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (or diced Roma tomatoes)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) to prepare for baking the chicken bake.
- Season Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken chunks with olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Sear Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken pieces for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in juices; chicken will finish cooking in the oven.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Transfer the seared chicken pieces to a baking dish in an even layer.
- Add Toppings: Evenly spread the cherry tomatoes (or diced Roma tomatoes) over the chicken, followed by shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish: Remove from oven and sprinkle fresh chopped basil over the top for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Drizzle and Serve: Optionally drizzle with balsamic glaze for added sweetness and tang. Serve hot with your choice of pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning mix before searing.
- You can substitute chicken breasts with turkey breast chunks for a leaner protein alternative.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Keywords: Bruschetta Chicken Bake, Italian chicken recipe, baked chicken with tomatoes and cheese, easy dinner recipe, mozzarella chicken bake