Description
Savory chicken bruschetta bake combines Italian-inspired flavors in a hearty casserole that promises comfort and zest. Mediterranean ingredients meld perfectly, creating a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (about 4 medium tomatoes)
- 1 box (6 ounces) stuffing mix
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Herbs, Aromatics, and Seasonings:
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for chicken)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for bruschetta)
Liquid and Dairy Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups hot water
- 1/4 cup butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the baking vessel by greasing a 9×13-inch dish and heating the oven to 375°F, creating an ideal cooking environment.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear in olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side until golden, developing a rich exterior flavor.
- Create bruschetta mixture by combining diced tomatoes, red onion, garlic, basil, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil, mixing thoroughly to blend fresh ingredients.
- Hydrate stuffing mix with hot water and melted butter, allowing the mixture to absorb liquid and develop a soft, cohesive texture.
- Layer the seared chicken in the prepared baking dish, covering it completely with the vibrant bruschetta topping.
- Distribute prepared stuffing evenly across the bruschetta-covered chicken, ensuring complete coverage.
- Generously sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the stuffing layer, creating a melty, golden-brown surface.
- Bake covered with aluminum foil for 20 minutes, then uncover and continue baking for 10-15 minutes until cheese bubbles and chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
- Allow the dish to rest briefly before serving, letting flavors meld and settle, and garnish with fresh basil for a final aromatic touch.
Notes
- Choose chicken breasts of similar thickness to ensure even cooking and prevent dry or undercooked sections.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help achieve a golden-brown sear and enhance flavor absorption.
- Allow bruschetta mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes before topping chicken to develop richer, more intense flavors.
- Use fresh basil and ripe tomatoes for the most vibrant and authentic bruschetta taste.
- For gluten-free option, replace stuffing mix with gluten-free breadcrumbs or quinoa.
- Reduce cheese quantity for a lighter version or use low-fat alternatives without compromising taste.
- Add red pepper flakes to bruschetta mixture for extra heat and complexity.
- Can substitute chicken with turkey or plant-based protein for dietary variations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg