Grilled Bruschetta Chicken

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Cook Time: 10 minutes

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken

This grilled bruschetta chicken, topped with fresh seasonal produce, screams summertime. Featuring tomatoes, garlic, and basil, the colorful grilled chicken recipe is practically bursting with bold Italian flavor. Crumbled croutons add welcome crunch, ensuring every bite is simply irresistible.

Cook's Note: Bruschetta is normally served on toasted, crunchy bread. Instead, purchased crumbled croutons are used as a topping for this dish. To preserve crunch, croutons are broken into slightly smaller pieces, but not crushed.

Ingredients (for 4 servings)

• 2 tomatoes, cored
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided, or to taste
• 2 tablespoons torn fresh basil leaves, plus more leaves for garnish
• 1/2 cup purchased croutons
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, or as needed, for oiling the grill

Directions

1. Gather all ingredients. Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat.
2. While the grill is heating, prepare the bruschetta. Chop the tomatoes over a bowl to capture all the juice. Add olive oil, garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir in the torn basil leaves and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Set the bruschetta aside.
3. Place the croutons in a resealable plastic bag and seal it. Gently tap the croutons with a heavy spoon to break them into smaller pieces, without crushing them. Set the croutons aside.
4. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with the remaining salt, pepper, garlic powder, and sweet paprika. If the chicken breasts are thick, pound them to about 1/2-inch thickness for even cooking.
5. Once the grill is preheated, clean the grates. Using tongs, dip a paper towel in olive oil and carefully rub it over the grates to oil them.
6. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the oiled grill grates. Grill for 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until the juices run clear and the chicken is no longer pink in the center. The internal temperature should reach 165F (74C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
7. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill. Top each chicken breast with the prepared bruschetta and sprinkle with the crumbled croutons. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	366
Total Fat	22g (28% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	4g (18% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	84mg (28% Daily Value)
Sodium	664mg (29% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	10g (4% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	2g (8% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	4g
Protein	32g (65% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	21mg (24% Daily Value)
Calcium	40mg (3% Daily Value)
Iron	2mg (10% Daily Value)
Potassium	644mg (14% Daily Value)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken is a deliciously fresh and vibrant dish that brings the flavors of a classic Italian appetizer to a hearty, satisfying main course. This recipe combines the savory flavors of grilled chicken breasts with a flavorful topping of bruschetta made from ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of garlic. Crumbled croutons add the perfect crunch, making this dish a hit at any meal.

History of Bruschetta

Bruschetta, a traditional Italian appetizer, dates back to ancient Roman times, where it was commonly enjoyed as a way to use up stale bread. The bread was toasted over an open flame and then rubbed with garlic and drizzled with olive oil. Over the centuries, this humble dish evolved, with different regions of Italy adding their own unique toppings, such as tomatoes, basil, and various other ingredients. The word "bruschetta" comes from the Italian verb "bruscare," meaning "to toast" or "to roast," referencing the method of preparing the bread. While originally a simple snack, it has now become a beloved component of Italian cuisine, frequently served as an appetizer or a light meal.

Regional Variations

Bruschetta is a dish that varies greatly depending on the region of Italy. In the southern regions, particularly Campania and Naples, bruschetta is often topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. In central Italy, particularly in Tuscany, it might be served with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or topped with cured meats or beans. This grilled bruschetta chicken is a modern American twist on the classic, blending the traditional flavors of bruschetta with grilled chicken for a more substantial meal. The use of croutons instead of toasted bread is another regional variation that adds extra texture and crunch to the dish.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken stands apart from similar chicken dishes, like Chicken Parmesan or Chicken Caprese, by incorporating fresh, raw tomatoes and a crisp, crunchy topping. While Chicken Parmesan features breaded and fried chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese, Grilled Bruschetta Chicken is lighter, focusing on the fresh, vibrant flavors of summer tomatoes and herbs. The use of croutons as a topping also sets it apart from traditional bruschetta, adding a unique texture and extra flavor. The grilled chicken serves as a healthier alternative to breaded options, offering a lean protein base for the fresh toppings.

Where It Is Typically Served

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken is commonly served as a main course during casual dinners, family gatherings, or barbecues, especially in the warmer months. It is perfect for outdoor grilling, making it a great choice for summer meals or gatherings on the patio. The fresh, light flavors also make it an excellent dish to serve at brunches or as part of a lighter dinner option. Restaurants that focus on Italian-American cuisine often feature variations of this dish, adding their own spin on the classic flavors.

Interesting Facts

• Bruschetta is often considered one of the first "fast foods" in Italy, originally designed to use up stale bread and other leftovers.
• The classic tomato topping for bruschetta became popular in the 20th century, as tomatoes were introduced to Italy from the Americas in the 16th century.
• Many Italian chefs argue that the key to the perfect bruschetta is using the best quality olive oil and the ripest, juiciest tomatoes.
• In addition to the traditional toppings, bruschetta can be made with a variety of other ingredients, including mushrooms, olives, and cheeses, making it a versatile dish.
• Bruschetta is often served as a shared dish in Italy, making it a popular choice for social gatherings and festive occasions.

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