Save
Bruschetta chicken brings the flavors of a classic Italian appetizer to your dinner table in the form of a satisfying main dish. Imagine juicy pan-seared chicken nestled beneath a bright and zesty tomato basil topping. With fuss-free steps you can have a healthy and crowd-pleasing dinner on the table in no time.
I first tried this on a busy weeknight when I was craving something light yet special. The first bite instantly made me smile and I could not believe how quick it was to pull off.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: provides lean protein and soaks up the seasoning beautifully look for pieces that are uniform for even cooking
- Italian seasoning: brings together basil oregano thyme and more reach for a good quality blend for max flavor
- Salt and pepper: enhances all the savory and fresh notes use freshly cracked pepper if possible
- Olive oil: ensures juicy chicken and helps get golden edges use extra virgin for the best flavor
- Fresh tomatoes: form the heart of the topping choose ripe and firm tomatoes for sweet tang
- Extra virgin olive oil: in the tomato mixture offers richness and helps coat everything
- Balsamic vinegar: adds a punch of acidity to balance the sweetness opt for aged balsamic if you can
- Garlic: gives the topping its classic savory kick fresh is best so mince it just before using
- Red onion: adds a gentle bite and a bit of crunch the brighter the color the better the flavor
- Fresh basil: brings the topping to life seek out bunches with vibrant leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pound or slice your chicken so it is about half an inch thin. This helps it cook quickly and evenly and keeps it juicy.
- Season the Chicken:
- Sprinkle both sides of the chicken generously with Italian seasoning salt and pepper. Pat the seasoning in so it sticks well.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high. Add the chicken in a single layer. Cook about three to five minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Timing depends on thickness. Remove from pan and let rest.
- Make the Bruschetta Topping:
- Combine diced tomatoes extra virgin olive oil balsamic vinegar freshly minced garlic finely diced red onion and sliced basil in a bowl. Stir and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it sit a few minutes for the flavors to mingle.
- Top and Serve:
- Place chicken on serving plates. Spoon generous amounts of the tomato mixture right over each piece. Serve right away while the chicken is warm.
Save
My absolute favorite part is the basil. The way its aroma hits you when it is freshly cut just before topping the chicken will always take me back to my grandmother’s garden when I was little. She would pinch basil leaves right off the plant for meals like this.
Storage Tips
Keep the tomato topping and chicken separate if you are storing leftovers. Store each in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat reheat the chicken gently then add the tomato mixture just before serving for the freshest flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have fresh basil flat leaf parsley or even a handful of baby spinach can work in a pinch. For the protein try using boneless turkey cutlets or a thin pork chop. Any sweet ripe tomato variety will do even cherry tomatoes halved.
Serving Suggestions
This dish shines alongside buttered noodles angel hair pasta or fluffy rice. It is especially good with a side of steamed green beans or zucchini. For a gluten free meal serve it over cauliflower rice or a green salad.
Cultural Context
Bruschetta itself is a beloved Italian starter celebrating simple ingredients freshly harvested. By swapping out the bread for tender chicken you keep all those sun drenched flavors but turn it into a light dinner that is naturally gluten free and bursting with classic Mediterranean colors.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I grill the chicken instead of pan searing?
Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor and works well with the tomato basil topping. Just cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
- → What kind of tomatoes work best?
Use ripe, firm tomatoes like Roma or cherry tomatoes for the best texture and flavor in the topping.
- → Can I prepare the tomato mixture ahead of time?
Yes, making the mixture a few hours ahead helps the flavors blend. Add fresh basil just before serving to keep it bright.
- → What is the best way to serve this dish?
Serve the chicken warm with the tomato mixture on top, accompanied by pasta, rice, or seasonal vegetables.
- → Is there a dairy-free garnish option?
Skip the cheese and try a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or balsamic glaze for added depth without dairy.
- → Can chicken thighs be used?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be pan seared or grilled for a juicier result with the same flavorful toppings.