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This is one of those quick weeknight dinners that feels like something special without any fuss. Juicy pan-seared chicken gets topped with a fresh tomato basil mixture and creamy mozzarella for a simple meal that tastes like summer.
I made this for a backyard dinner party last summer and it was the first dish gone. Everyone kept asking for the recipe and now it is on my regular dinner rotation.
Ingredients
- Roma tomatoes: add bright acidity and sweetness look for firm ripe ones
- Fresh basil: brings the signature Italian flavor chiffonade for the best texture
- Red onion: gives sharpness and bite use a mild one if preferred
- Garlic: deepens the overall savoriness mince it fresh for best taste
- Balsamic vinegar: adds tang and balance use a quality aged variety
- Olive oil: smooths and blends the dressing extra virgin is ideal
- Kosher salt and black pepper: essential for seasoning balance
- Chicken breasts: offer lean protein pound to an even thickness for best results
- Fresh mozzarella: melts beautifully over the hot chicken choose whole milk mozzarella for creaminess
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Bruschetta Topping:
- In a medium bowl combine diced roma tomatoes fresh basil red onion and garlic mix thoroughly until evenly distributed
- Dress the Mixture:
- Add balsamic vinegar olive oil salt and pepper to the bowl toss well and set aside to let the flavors meld while preparing the chicken
- Pound the Chicken:
- Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap or in a ziptop bag and gently pound them to an even thickness using a kitchen mallet this ensures even cooking
- Season the Chicken:
- Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with kosher salt and coarse black pepper pressing gently to help the seasoning adhere
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy skillet over high heat once hot sear the chicken breasts for 7 to 8 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through with an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit
- Add the Mozzarella:
- Place two slices of mozzarella on each chicken breast reduce heat to low cover the pan and cook for 1 minute just until the cheese begins to melt
- Assemble and Serve:
- Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and generously spoon the tomato basil mixture over the top serve warm with pasta or a crisp green salad
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The fresh basil is the highlight for me I love how its peppery fragrance fills the kitchen as soon as you start chopping. One time my son picked the basil straight from our garden and insisted on helping with every step it made this dish even more special.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet to preserve the texture of the chicken and cheese. The bruschetta topping can also be used cold as a salad-style garnish if you prefer.
Ingredient Substitutions
If fresh mozzarella is not available you can use shredded part skim mozzarella or even provolone. Cherry tomatoes work well in place of roma just be sure to deseed to avoid excess moisture. Swap red onion for shallots if you want a milder flavor.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish over al dente pasta to soak up the tomato juices or pair with a crusty bread. It also makes a great topping for grilled bread if you want to turn it into an open faced sandwich. Add a side of sautéed green beans or asparagus to round it out.
Cultural Historical Context
Inspired by classic Italian bruschetta this dish turns the appetizer into a hearty entrée. The contrast of hot savory chicken with the chilled tomato basil topping highlights the fresh simple philosophy of Italian cooking brought into a modern American kitchen.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of roma tomatoes?
Yes, cherry tomatoes work well—just be sure to deseed and chop them finely to avoid excess moisture.
- → What’s the best way to melt the mozzarella?
Cover the pan briefly after adding mozzarella slices to trap steam and help the cheese melt evenly.
- → Can I grill the chicken instead of searing it?
Absolutely. Grilled chicken adds a nice smoky flavor and pairs beautifully with the bruschetta topping.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
- → What sides go well with this dish?
Serve with angel hair pasta, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.