Description
We all know the flavors of the classic appetizer, but now it’s time to turn it into dinner with this chicken bruschetta bake.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, stems removed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Casserole:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1–1.5 lbs total)
- 1 small loaf French bread or baguette, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 3.5–4 cups)
- Nonstick cooking oil spray
- 6 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1 teaspoon fresh chopped parsley leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup diced vine-ripened tomatoes (about 2 medium)or 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Add all of the marinade ingredients to a small bowl. Whisk to combine.
- Add marinade to a large resealable bag with the chicken. Seal and place in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 6 hours, or overnight.
- When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400˚F.
- Spread bread cubes in an even layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Place in the oven and toast until golden brown, for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring halfway through. Remove from oven and set aside.
- Grease a rectangular baking dish with cooking oil spray. Place chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with half of the cheese, and set aside.
- Add toasted bread to a large bowl along with the garlic, basil, parsley, salt, black pepper, and canned tomatoes. Fold gently to combine.
- Spread the bread mixture evenly over the chicken. Do not press it into the meat, just lightly cover it. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the poultry is cooked through. Remove from the oven. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Chicken
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Poultry
Keywords: chicken, bruschetta, tomato, garlic, casserole