Savory Bruschetta Chicken Bake with Fresh Tomatoes

Looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that will transport you to the sunny countryside of Italy? Look no further than this flavorful Bruschetta Chicken Bake Tomatoes recipe! With juicy tomatoes, tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and a hint of balsamic vinegar, every bite of this dish is a celebration of summer flavors.

I love how this Bruschetta Chicken Bake Tomatoes recipe effortlessly blends the bold tastes of garlicky tomatoes and savory chicken with the melty goodness of mozzarella. It’s a dish that brings a touch of elegance to any dinner table without requiring hours of slaving away in the kitchen. Plus, the aroma of tomatoes and garlic bubbling away in the oven will make your kitchen feel like a cozy Italian trattoria.

Whether you have an abundance of fresh tomatoes from your garden or simply crave a comforting yet light meal, this Bruschetta Chicken Bake Tomatoes is sure to become a regular on your menu. Serve it over fluffy rice or with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Italy right in your own home with this delightful recipe!

Quick Benefits

• Easy to make with minimal effort but delivers bold and comforting flavors
• Adaptable recipe allows for ingredient swaps to suit personal preferences or available items
• Provides a taste of Italy with vibrant, fresh ingredients like tomatoes, basil, and balsamic vinegar
• A versatile dish that can be served over rice, quinoa, or with crusty bread for a satisfying meal

Why You’ll Love This Savory Bruschetta Chicken Bake with Fresh Tomatoes Recipe

• Authentic Italian Flavors: The bold flavors of garlicky tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and basil will transport you to Italy with every bite.
• Easy Weeknight Meal: Perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flexible and Adaptable: You can customize this recipe based on what you have on hand, from different cheeses to adding extra veggies like spinach or onions.
• Memories and Nostalgia: The aroma of tomatoes and garlic in the oven will evoke memories of cooking in your first apartment or learning to make special meals.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh tomatoes, basil, and good olive oil ensures vibrant and authentic flavors in every bite.
• Impressive Yet Effortless: Impress your guests with minimal effort – the dish looks and tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.
• Meal Prep Friendly: You can store leftovers for up to three days and reheat easily, making it a great option for meal prepping or enjoying as leftovers.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether over rice, quinoa, crusty bread, or with a side salad, this dish pairs well with various sides for a complete meal.
• Family Favorite: Once you try it, this bruschetta chicken bake might become a regular on your dinner table, loved by the whole family.

Ingredients for Savory Bruschetta Chicken Bake with Fresh Tomatoes

• 3 cups (approximately 540 grams) diced fresh tomatoes, preferably Roma or Campari
• 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 680 grams boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2.5 cm bite-sized pieces
• 2 teaspoons fresh basil, finely chopped, for garnish
• 1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning blend
• 1 cup (115 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

Pro Tips for Savory Bruschetta Chicken Bake with Fresh Tomatoes

To make the Bruschetta Chicken Bake, remember that browning the chicken first not only ensures a juicy result but also adds depth of flavor to the dish. Use hand-shredded or fresh mozzarella for the best melting, as pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents. Opt for Roma or Campari tomatoes for their low water content and robust taste, though any ripe seasonal tomatoes will work well. For a sweeter and more intense flavor, consider using balsamic glaze instead of regular balsamic vinegar.

To enhance the dish, consider adding diced onions along with the tomatoes for extra sweetness and depth. If you’re out of fresh basil, a sprinkle of dried basil after baking works as a substitute. Additionally, for a different flavor profile, try substituting mozzarella with crumbled feta or adding a layer of baby spinach. Serve the Bruschetta Chicken Bake over fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful tomato juices, or enjoy it with crusty bread to savor every bit of the delicious sauce.

How to Make Savory Bruschetta Chicken Bake with Fresh Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat the oven to 190°C. Lightly grease a 20 cm by 20 cm baking dish with cooking spray.

Step 2: Sear Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add chicken pieces in a single layer, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until golden and cooked through to 74°C internal temperature. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare Tomato Mixture

While the chicken is cooking, mix diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and balsamic vinegar in a large bowl until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble Layers

Spread half of the tomato mixture on the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange sautéed chicken evenly over the tomatoes, then top with the remaining tomato mixture.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake

Spread the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the layers. Bake in the oven, uncovered, for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and tomatoes are soft.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Let the dish rest for 2–3 minutes after baking, then sprinkle with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Storage Tips

To store the finished bruschetta chicken bake, ensure it has cooled completely before transferring leftovers into an airtight container. The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy again, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the whole pan in the oven until heated through. It is recommended not to freeze the bake as the tomatoes may become mushy, but you can freeze the cooked chicken on its own and add fresh tomato and cheese when you are ready to use it.

The flavors of the dish can be enhanced by sprinkling dried basil if fresh basil is not available, or adding finely diced onions for extra sweetness and depth. Additionally, you can experiment with different cheeses like crumbled feta for a punchier flavor or incorporate baby spinach for added greens. Serve the bruschetta chicken bake over rice, quinoa, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato juices. A side of arugula salad complements the meal with some fresh greens. The dish’s adaptability allows for easy customization based on seasonal ingredients and personal preferences, making it a versatile and flavorful option for any dinner occasion.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make substitutions in this Bruschetta Chicken Bake recipe, there are a few options to consider. If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, you can use dried basil as a replacement. It won’t provide the same vibrant flavor as fresh basil, so adjust the amount to taste. Additionally, if you want to add extra sweetness and depth to the dish, consider using plain white or yellow onions finely diced along with the tomatoes.

For a different flavor profile, you can experiment with different cheeses. If you prefer a punchier taste, try using crumbled feta instead of mozzarella. Feta will bring a tangy and salty element to the dish that complements the tomatoes and garlic nicely. You can also add a layer of baby spinach for extra greens and a pop of color.

When it comes to the balsamic vinegar, if you prefer a sweeter and more intense flavor, you can use balsamic glaze instead of regular balsamic vinegar. The glaze will add a thicker consistency and a richer taste to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the amount used based on your personal preference for sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try layering the warm bruschetta chicken bake over a bed of creamy polenta for a cozy and comforting meal. The creamy polenta will soak up all the delicious flavors of the tomatoes and garlic, creating a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for a chilly evening.

To elevate the presentation, serve the bruschetta chicken bake in individual baked bread bowls. Hollow out small round loaves of bread, fill them with the chicken bake mixture, and top with extra shredded mozzarella and fresh basil. This not only adds a fun twist to the dish but also creates a rustic and charming way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Italy in a cozy and portable package.

FAQs for Savory Bruschetta Chicken Bake with Fresh Tomatoes

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil in this recipe?

Yes, if you do not have fresh basil, you can sprinkle a little dried basil on the dish after baking to add flavor.

Can I freeze the leftovers of the Bruschetta Chicken Bake?

It is not recommended to freeze the whole bake as the tomatoes can become mushy. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken on its own and add fresh tomato and cheese when ready to use.

Why is it recommended to use Roma or Campari tomatoes in this recipe?

Roma or Campari tomatoes are preferred for their low water content and robust flavor, which helps prevent the dish from becoming too watery during baking. However, any ripe seasonal tomatoes will work well.

Why is it suggested to brown the chicken before baking?

Browning the chicken first ensures a fully cooked, juicy result and adds depth of flavor to the finished dish, enhancing the overall taste of the Bruschetta Chicken Bake.

Conclusion

Bruschetta Chicken Bake Tomatoes truly captures the essence of simple, flavorful Italian cooking in one delicious dish. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. The combination of juicy tomatoes, tender chicken, and gooey mozzarella is a winning trio that will have your taste buds singing with joy.

Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own by adding your favorite twists like extra veggies, different cheeses, or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs. The beauty of bruschetta chicken bake tomatoes lies in its versatility and adaptability, making it a perfect canvas for your creativity in the kitchen. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s comforting, satisfying, and oh-so delicious. Bon appétit!

Savory Bruschetta Chicken Bake with Fresh Tomatoes

“Bruschetta Chicken Bake: Juicy chicken, garlicky tomatoes, and melty mozzarella create a taste of Italy in this easy, comforting dish.”

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Prep Time20 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time40 Minutes

CuisineItalian

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings

Ingredients

• 3 cups (approximately 540 grams) diced fresh tomatoes, preferably Roma or Campari
• 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 680 grams boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2.5 cm bite-sized pieces
• 2 teaspoons fresh basil, finely chopped, for garnish
• 1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning blend
• 1 cup (115 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

Instructions

1. Prepare Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 190°C. Lightly grease a 20 cm by 20 cm baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Sear Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add chicken pieces in a single layer, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until golden and cooked through to 74°C internal temperature. Remove from heat.
3. Prepare Tomato Mixture: While the chicken is cooking, mix diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and balsamic vinegar in a large bowl until well combined.
4. Assemble Layers: Spread half of the tomato mixture on the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange sautéed chicken evenly over the tomatoes, then top with the remaining tomato mixture.
5. Add Cheese and Bake: Spread the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the layers. Bake in the oven, uncovered, for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and tomatoes are soft.
6. Finish and Serve: Let the dish rest for 2–3 minutes after baking, then sprinkle with chopped fresh basil before serving.