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This pesto bruschetta chicken transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a restaurant-worthy Italian-inspired dish with layers of fresh flavors and minimal effort. The combination of creamy mozzarella, bright pesto, and juicy tomato bruschetta creates an impressive meal that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen.
I first made this when looking for a way to use up summer tomatoes and basil from my garden. It's become our go-to when we want something that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Choose thick cuts that you can pound to even thickness for perfect cooking
- Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin for the bruschetta topping
- Italian seasoning: Brings authentic Italian flavor without needing a dozen individual herbs
- Fresh mozzarella: Galbani thin sliced melts beautifully over the warm chicken
- Basil pesto: Provides rich flavor without extra work — store bought works great
- Tomatoes: Choose ripe Roma or cherry tomatoes for the sweetest flavor
- Fresh basil: Adds bright color and aromatic flavor to the bruschetta
- Balsamic glaze: Creates a beautiful finish and sweet tangy contrast — worth buying a bottle
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the bruschetta topping:
- Combine the diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, olive oil, and seasonings in a medium bowl. The smaller you dice the tomatoes, the easier it will be to eat later. Allow this mixture to sit while you cook the chicken so the flavors can develop and meld together beautifully.
- Season the chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry before rubbing with olive oil to help the seasonings stick. Apply an even coating of Italian seasoning, salt, pepper and garlic powder on both sides. Pounding the chicken to even thickness beforehand ensures it will cook evenly throughout.
- Cook the chicken:
- Heat your skillet until it's properly hot before adding the chicken to achieve a nice golden exterior. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side depending on thickness, and add the squeeze of lemon halfway through to brighten the flavors. The chicken should reach 165°F internal temperature.
- Melt the cheese:
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, lower the heat and layer two slices of fresh mozzarella on each piece. Cover the skillet to trap the heat and help the cheese melt completely, about 2 minutes. The thin sliced mozzarella works perfectly here.
- Add the toppings:
- Remove from heat and layer each piece with a tablespoon of pesto, followed by a generous spoonful of bruschetta mixture. Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze in a decorative pattern. The heat from the chicken will warm the toppings slightly without cooking them.
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The balsamic glaze is what takes this dish from good to extraordinary. I keep a bottle in my pantry at all times after discovering how it transforms everyday dishes like this one. The sweet tanginess cuts through the richness of the cheese and pesto beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
You can prepare the bruschetta topping up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor. The colder it is, the less aromatic the basil and garlic will be when you top the hot chicken.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken pairs beautifully with a simple side of angel hair pasta tossed with olive oil and parmesan. For a lower carb option, serve it over zucchini noodles or with a side of roasted vegetables. A glass of Pinot Grigio completes the meal perfectly if you enjoy wine with dinner.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find fresh mozzarella, regular sliced mozzarella works fine. For a dairy free version, skip the cheese entirely and double up on the pesto. Chicken thighs can substitute for breasts if you prefer darker meat, just adjust cooking time accordingly. Store bought bruschetta topping can save time, though the fresh version offers superior flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Ensure the chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F, and avoid overcooking.
- → Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly for this recipe. You can also make your own using fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and pine nuts for a homemade touch.
- → What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- → Can I substitute mozzarella with another cheese?
Absolutely! You can use provolone, fontina, or even a mild goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- → How long does the bruschetta topping stay fresh?
The bruschetta topping is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.