Description

A crispy, juicy chicken bake topped with fresh bruschetta made from tomatoes, basil, garlic, and balsamic vinegar. Easy to prepare and perfect for guests or family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds / 700g)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (100g)
2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
3 medium Roma tomatoes, diced (about 300g)
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (about 10g)
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (15ml)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (100g)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

Prep the bruschetta topping by combining diced Roma tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes in a medium bowl. Toss gently and set aside.
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. In a shallow bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with a pinch of salt and remaining minced garlic.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Press each chicken breast into the panko mixture, coating both sides thoroughly. Sear chicken in the skillet for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown but not fully cooked.
Transfer seared chicken to an oven-safe baking dish. Spoon bruschetta topping evenly over each piece, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top.
Bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

To keep chicken crispy, do not cover while baking or after. Toast panko breadcrumbs lightly in a dry skillet for extra crunch. Prep chicken and topping separately up to 4 hours ahead. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overbaking. For gluten-free, substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast wit
Calories: 450
Sodium: 600
Fat: 20
Saturated Fat: 8
Carbohydrates: 15
Protein: 45

Keywords: bruschetta chicken bake, crispy chicken, easy dinner, chicken bake recipe, bruschetta topping, dinner for guests, quick chicken recipe