🍗 Bruschetta Chicken Bake
📖 Description
This Bruschetta Chicken Bake is a flavorful, Italian-inspired dish that transforms simple ingredients into a wholesome, restaurant-quality meal. Juicy chicken breasts are topped with a zesty mix of cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil, and melted cheese—then baked to bubbling perfection. It’s quick enough for weeknights and elegant enough for company!
🍽️ Servings
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: ~35–40 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
🧑🍳 Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Prepare Chicken:
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in a lightly greased baking dish. - Make Bruschetta Topping:
In a bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat. - Assemble:
Spoon the bruschetta mixture evenly over each chicken breast. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. - Bake:
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is melted and golden. - Garnish and Serve:
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired. - 💡 Notes & Tips
- Thicker Chicken? Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for quicker, even cooking.
- Want Extra Flavor? Marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning for 30 minutes beforehand.
- Balsamic Boost: Drizzle with balsamic glaze after baking for added tang and sweetness.
- Make It Keto-Friendly: This recipe is naturally low in carbs!
🥗 Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 kcal |
| Carbs | 5 g |
| Protein | 40 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
Note: Nutritional values can vary based on cheese and oil used.
✅ Health Benefits
- High in Protein: Keeps you full and supports muscle repair.
- Tomatoes & Basil: Rich in antioxidants, including lycopene and vitamin K.
- Olive Oil & Garlic: Heart-healthy fats and immune-boosting properties.
- Low Carb: Great for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the dish up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.
Q: What sides pair well with this dish?
A: Try it with garlic green beans, roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or a side of orzo or rice if not following low-carb.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: You can freeze the assembled uncooked dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.