Description
A modern twist on classic bruschetta flavors, this Bruschetta Chicken Casserole combines tender chicken with a fresh tomato, basil, and garlic topping, all baked with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a hearty yet light dish perfect for weeknights or family meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Chicken Base:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- For the Bruschetta Topping:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
- ½ small red onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- To Finish:
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional: Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish.
- In a large bowl, toss your chicken pieces with the avocado oil, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Ensure the seasoning coats the chicken well.
- Spread the seasoned chicken evenly in the baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- While the chicken bakes, prepare the bruschetta topping. In a separate bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, minced garlic, fresh basil, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil.
- Season the bruschetta mixture with salt and pepper. Stir well and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Remove the chicken from the oven once it’s cooked.
- Evenly spoon the fresh bruschetta mixture over the top of the baked chicken.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over everything.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden-brown top, broil for the last 1–2 minutes, watching closely.
- Garnish with extra basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Substitute mozzarella with dairy-free cheese alternatives if needed.
- Add red chili flakes to the bruschetta for a mild kick.
- Use fresh tomatoes like Roma or heirloom for the best flavor.
- The bruschetta topping can be made ahead and stored in the fridge; let it come to room temperature before using.
- For extra melty cheese, add an additional ½ cup of mozzarella or a sprinkle of Parmesan before broiling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g