If you’re seeking a no-mess, nutritious dinner solution that’s loaded with fresh flavors, this Sheet Pan Bruschetta Chicken with Balsamic Glaze fits the bill perfectly. It brings together all the classic tastes of bruschetta and delivers them in a fuss-free format. Ideal for busy weeknights, it requires minimal prep and cleanup.

• Cuisine: Italian
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Cleanup: Everything cooks on one sheet pan, saving you time on washing dishes.
• Flavorful: Infused with Italian herbs and topped with a vibrant tomato mixture, each bite is delightful.
• Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings or use a different protein to suit your taste.
• Healthy: Features lean protein, fresh vegetables, and simple, wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless: A lean protein that serves as the base. You can substitute with thighs if preferred.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Keeps the chicken moist and helps the seasoning stick.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs to add classic Italian flavors. Make your own with oregano, basil, and thyme if needed.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth and a hint of garlic aroma. In a pinch, use finely minced fresh garlic.
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the overall flavors of the dish.
• 120 grams mozzarella cheese, sliced or grated: Melts beautifully over the chicken for a creamy finish. Substitute with provolone if desired.
• 4 Roma tomatoes, seeded and diced: They add freshness and a slight tanginess. Use any tomato variety available.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant kick to the bruschetta topping.
• 1/4 cup red onion, minced: Offers a mild sweetness and crunch. Shallots work too.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used in the bruschetta topping for richness.
• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar: Adds acidity and sweetness to the tomato mixture.
• 1 pinch sea salt: Balances the flavors in the bruschetta topping.
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped: Enhances the dish with its aromatic herbaceous note. Dried basil can be a substitute, though fresh is best.
• Parmesan, freshly grated, to serve: Offers a sharp, nutty flavor finish.
• 1 pound baby potatoes, roughly 20 potatoes, halved: A hearty side that cooks simultaneously with the chicken.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Coats the potatoes to ensure they cook evenly and crisp up.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Seasons the potatoes.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and depth to the potatoes.

How to Make It

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This temperature ensures that both the chicken and potatoes cook through evenly and develop a nice golden color.

Step 2: Prep the Potatoes

In a mixing bowl, combine the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until they’re evenly coated, which promotes even cooking and crispiness. Transfer them to a large baking sheet, spreading them out to avoid crowding.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Using the same mixing bowl, combine the chicken breasts with olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and sea salt. Toss to ensure each piece is well coated. This step infuses the chicken with flavor and helps keep it moist. If you have time, marinate for up to 24 hours to enhance the flavors.

Step 4: Arrange and Cook

Place the chicken on the same baking sheet as the potatoes, leaving space between each breast for even cooking. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Bruschetta Topping

While the chicken cooks, mix the tomatoes, onion, minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and half the basil in a bowl. Stir until combined and set aside. This mixture will top the chicken, infusing it with fresh, vibrant tastes.

Step 6: Finish Cooking

After 20 minutes, remove the sheet from the oven. Flip the chicken breasts for even browning and give the potatoes a good toss. Top each chicken breast with mozzarella cheese and a generous spoonful of the tomato mixture. Return the sheet to the oven for another 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and bubble.

Step 7: Serve

Remove the sheet pan from the oven. Sprinkle the chicken with the remaining fresh basil and a dusting of Parmesan. Serve immediately for best flavor, though leftovers can be stored for later enjoyment.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prep the ingredients and marinate the chicken up to a day in advance. The completed dish can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

What other vegetables can I use instead of potatoes?

You can easily swap potatoes for other vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or bell peppers. Choose veggies with similar roasting times to ensure everything cooks evenly.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. The cheese should be melted and lightly golden.