Bruschetta Chicken

Bruschetta Chicken transforms the classic Italian appetizer into a hearty main dish. Tender grilled or baked chicken breasts are topped with a fresh tomato and basil mixture, finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for a quick and healthy dinner.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each)

• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Bruschetta Topping:

• 3–4 medium ripe tomatoes (about 1 lb), cored, seeded, and chopped into ½" dice

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar

• 2 tablespoons thinly sliced fresh basil

• Ground black pepper, to taste

• Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
  
  

Directions

1. Prepare the Bruschetta Topping:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes with kosher salt and minced garlic. Let this mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

   • Stir in the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, fresh basil, and ground black pepper. Set aside to allow the flavors to develop further.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Place each chicken breast between two sheets of parchment paper. Using a rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1 inch. This ensures uniform cooking.

   • In a small bowl, mix the Italian seasoning, kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and ground black pepper.

   • Brush each chicken breast with olive oil, then evenly sprinkle the seasoning mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts.
     
     

3. Cook the Chicken:

   • To Grill: Preheat the grill to high heat (approximately 400°F). Grill the chicken breasts for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes.

   • To Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.

4. Assemble the Dish:

   • Top each cooked chicken breast with a generous portion of the prepared bruschetta mixture.

   • If desired, drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor and presentation.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 293 kcal

• Protein: Approximately 39g

• Fat: Approximately 12g

• Carbohydrates: Approximately 6g

• Fiber: Approximately 1g

• Sugar: Approximately 3g

• Sodium: Approximately 680mg