Pesto Bruschetta Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than Pesto Bruschetta Chicken. This recipe has become a staple in my home, as it perfectly balances juicy grilled chicken with the freshness of tomatoes and the vibrant flavors of homemade basil pesto. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet delicious, or for family gatherings where everyone will be asking for seconds!

The combination of melted mozzarella and a sweet drizzle of balsamic glaze makes this dish not only tasty but also visually stunning. Plus, it’s low carb, making it a guilt-free pleasure for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep and 13 minutes of cooking time, you can whip this up in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves cheesy chicken topped with fresh flavors—this dish is sure to please both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead options: You can prepare the pesto or even marinate the chicken in advance to save time on busy days.
• Flavor-packed: The rich combination of mozzarella, pesto, and bruschetta creates an explosion of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing!
• Versatile serving options: Serve it over greens, with veggies on the side, or alongside some crusty bread for dipping.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, wholesome, and perfect for bringing this delightful dish to life. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to make Pesto Bruschetta Chicken:

For the Chicken

• 2 Large Chicken Breasts (pounded to even thickness)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
• 1 tsp Salt
• ¼ tsp Black Pepper
• 4 slices Galbani Thin Sliced Fresh Mozzarella

For the Bruschetta Topping

• ¼ cup Basil Pesto
• 2 tbsp Balsamic Glaze
• ½ Lemon
• 1 cup Tomato (diced)
• 2 tbsp Basil Leaves (thinly sliced)
• 1 Garlic Clove (grated)
• 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• ½ tsp Red Pepper Flakes
• ½ tsp Salt
• ¼ tsp Pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, try using turkey breasts or even grilled eggplant for a vegetarian twist.
• Change up the cheese: Don’t have mozzarella? Use provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some sautéed bell peppers or zucchini on top for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the bruschetta mixture.

How to Make Pesto Bruschetta Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Bruschetta Mixture

In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, basil leaves, grated garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients together allows their flavors to meld perfectly while setting them aside gives them time to develop even more flavor.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Rub each chicken breast with olive oil and sprinkle them with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This seasoning blend not only enhances the chicken’s flavor but also helps create a lovely crust when grilled.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with one tablespoon of olive oil. Cook each chicken breast for about 5-7 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Squeezing half a lemon over the chicken halfway through cooking adds brightness and keeps it juicy!

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Once cooked through, lower the heat and place two slices of Galbani Fresh Mozzarella on top of each breast. Covering the skillet helps melt the cheese beautifully without overcooking the chicken.

Step 5: Assemble Your Masterpiece

Remove from heat and generously top each chicken breast with basil pesto followed by your bruschetta mixture. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving to tie all those delectable flavors together.

Enjoy your Pesto Bruschetta Chicken with loved ones—it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Pesto Bruschetta Chicken

Creating the perfect Pesto Bruschetta Chicken is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out fabulous every time!

• Pound the Chicken Evenly: By pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness, you ensure they cook uniformly, preventing dry edges and ensuring juicy bites throughout.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and homemade basil pesto can make a world of difference in flavor. Fresh ingredients enhance the vibrancy of the dish, making it taste more authentic and delicious.

• Let the Chicken Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain juices, resulting in tender and moist chicken every time.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your personal taste. Adding a touch of lemon zest or fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile even further!

• Try Grilling for a Smoky Flavor: If you have access to a grill, consider grilling the chicken instead of pan-frying. It adds a lovely smoky flavor that complements the freshness of the toppings beautifully.

How to Serve Pesto Bruschetta Chicken

Presenting your Pesto Bruschetta Chicken in an appealing way can take your meal from ordinary to extraordinary! Here are some fun ideas for serving this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A sprinkle of freshly torn basil leaves adds not just color but also enhances the aromatic quality of your dish.
• Parmesan Cheese Shavings: Lightly shaved or grated Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top gives an extra layer of flavor and a gourmet touch.

Side Dishes

• Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed or spiralized zucchini noodles offer a fresh and low-carb side that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of bruschetta chicken.
• Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Simple yet elegant, garlic roasted asparagus provides a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette keeps things refreshing while balancing out the hearty chicken.
• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with vegetables can add texture and nutrition, making it a wholesome accompaniment to your meal.

Get ready to enjoy this delicious Pesto Bruschetta Chicken with these serving suggestions that will impress your family and friends alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pesto Bruschetta Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious, healthy meal throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best quality.

Freezing

• Let the cooked chicken cool to room temperature.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for your reference.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through (about 5-7 minutes).
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power, checking every minute until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Pesto Bruschetta Chicken.

Can I make Pesto Bruschetta Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and toppings ahead of time. Just store them separately and assemble just before serving for the best flavor.

What should I serve with Pesto Bruschetta Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it alongside quinoa or rice for a heartier meal.

How do I store leftover Pesto Bruschetta Chicken?

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just remember to let it cool completely first!

Can I freeze Pesto Bruschetta Chicken?

Yes! You can freeze cooked chicken by wrapping it tightly and storing it in a freezer-safe bag. Just ensure it’s thawed properly before reheating.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Pesto Bruschetta Chicken as delightful as I do! It’s a flavorful dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also great for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy making this recipe, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your own toppings or sides. Happy cooking!

---

Dinner