Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress? Dive into the delightful world of Italian cuisine with our Cheesy Lemon Chicken with Bruschetta Topping! This mouthwatering recipe combines succulent chicken breasts, a rich blend of cheeses, and a fresh, zesty bruschetta topping that will have your taste buds dancing. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. Don’t miss out on the chance to wow your family and friends—read on to discover how to make this unforgettable dish!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning and browning. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and half of the lemon zest.
- In a mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, minced garlic, remaining lemon zest, and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix well and set aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Place seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle each breast with a small amount of olive oil.
- Mix shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese together. Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Remove chicken from oven and immediately drizzle with fresh lemon juice.
- Top each chicken breast with the prepared bruschetta mixture just before serving.
- Let chicken rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, then serve hot.
Tips
- Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! Proper seasoning is key to enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
- Let the Flavors Marinate: Allow the bruschetta mixture to sit for a few minutes before topping the chicken. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the chicken while it bakes. Ovens can vary, so check for doneness at the 20-minute mark to prevent overcooking.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
- Customize the Topping: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients to the bruschetta mix, such as olives or feta cheese, to make it your own!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 42g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 130mg
