Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner into a restaurant-worthy experience with this mouthwatering Sheet Pan Bruschetta Chicken! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts perfectly seasoned and topped with burst-in-your-mouth cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and melted mozzarella – all prepared with minimal effort and maximum flavor. This Italian-inspired dish is about to become your new go-to recipe that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and half of the chopped fresh basil to create a marinade.
- Place chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Drizzle the balsamic marinade over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Scatter halved cherry tomatoes around and between the chicken breasts on the sheet pan.
- Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- During the last 3-5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken breasts to melt.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with remaining fresh basil before serving. Optionally, drizzle additional balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect sear and prevent soggy chicken.
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients – especially the basil and cherry tomatoes – for the most vibrant flavor.
- Don't overcrowd the sheet pan. Leave space between chicken breasts to allow even cooking and proper caramelization.
- Use an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches exactly 165°F (74°C) for perfect doneness.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
- For extra flavor, use a good quality balsamic vinegar and consider toasting some fresh bread to serve alongside the chicken.
- If you want a slightly charred effect, switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking (watch carefully to prevent burning).
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 36g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 100mg
