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This juicy chicken with fresh tomato bruschetta and creamy mozzarella has become my go to when I need something bold and fresh that still comes together in under thirty minutes. It is the kind of dish that feels like summer even in the middle of winter and it never fails to impress guests or my own family
I first made this for a last minute dinner party and everyone asked for the recipe before dessert even hit the table
Ingredients
- Roma tomatoes: bring juicy sweetness and hold their shape well choose firm ripe ones
- Fresh basil: adds a bright herbal note and cutting it into ribbons helps release flavor
- Red onion: gives sharpness and crunch try to mince it finely for balance
- Garlic: gives punch and depth fresh is best for flavor
- Balsamic vinegar: ties everything together with a sweet tang use a syrupy aged version if you have it
- Olive oil: rounds out the bruschetta and sears the chicken go for extra virgin for raw and regular for cooking
- Kosher salt: seasons evenly and sticks well to meat and vegetables
- Coarse ground black pepper: gives a bold peppery bite better texture than finely ground
- Chicken breasts: are lean protein and hold up well to searing pound to even thickness for even cooking
- Fresh mozzarella: melts beautifully into a creamy layer full fat gives the best texture and flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Bruschetta:
- In a medium bowl combine diced roma tomatoes fresh basil minced red onion and garlic. Stir in balsamic vinegar olive oil salt and pepper until well mixed. Let this sit at room temperature for at least ten minutes to allow the flavors to meld
- Flatten and Season the Chicken:
- Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment and pound with a kitchen mallet until even in thickness. Season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper making sure every surface is coated
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add chicken and sear for seven to eight minutes per side without moving them too much so you get a good golden crust. Cook until juices run clear and internal temperature reaches one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit
- Add the Mozzarella:
- Place two slices of mozzarella over each piece of chicken while still in the skillet. Cover with a lid for one minute until the cheese begins to melt and get gooey but not fully pooled
- Plate and Top:
- Transfer each chicken breast to a serving plate. Generously spoon the marinated bruschetta mixture over the top making sure to get plenty of the liquid as well. Serve immediately while the chicken is hot and the topping is fresh
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Storage Tips
Store leftover chicken and bruschetta separately in airtight containers. The bruschetta will last two days refrigerated and the chicken up to four. Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat and top with the cold bruschetta after warming
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap roma tomatoes for vine ripe or cherry tomatoes just make sure to deseed them to avoid a watery topping. For mozzarella try burrata for an even creamier texture or provolone for a sharper finish. No balsamic Use red wine vinegar and a pinch of brown sugar
Serving Suggestions
This goes beautifully with a bed of arugula or baby spinach tossed with lemon and olive oil. Or serve over grilled sourdough to make it feel like a deconstructed bruschetta plate. Roasted potatoes or a simple pasta also pair well for a heartier meal
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Cultural Historical Context
Bruschetta originated in central Italy as a way to preserve stale bread topped with garlic olive oil and fresh vegetables. This dish flips that idea turning the bruschetta from base to topping while honoring the traditional Italian love of fresh raw tomato mixtures paired with warm elements
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of roma?
Yes, cherry tomatoes can be used for a juicier, slightly sweeter bruschetta topping. Just chop them finely before mixing.
- → What's the best way to melt the mozzarella?
Cover the skillet after adding the mozzarella slices so the heat circulates and melts the cheese evenly in about one minute.
- → How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Make sure to sear the chicken on high heat without overcooking and allow it to reach 165°F internally for perfect juiciness.
- → Can I prepare the bruschetta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the topping up to a day in advance. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to enhance the flavors before serving.
- → What sides go well with this dish?
Grilled vegetables, garlic bread, or a crisp salad pair well with this fresh and savory chicken dinner.