Asparagus Bruschetta Chicken Skillet (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main

01 - 1 bunch asparagus, trim off the tough ends, then cut into pieces about 2 inches long
02 - 2-3 tablespoons olive oil, split into portions
03 - 1 teaspoon Italian herb blend
04 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
05 - ¾ teaspoon salt (some to season the chicken, the rest for cooking)
06 - ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 lb chicken breasts, flattened to about 1-inch thickness, then cut into four pieces, each around 4 oz

→ Bruschetta Topping

08 - 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze, optional for drizzling at the end
09 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
10 - ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
11 - ¼ teaspoon salt
12 - ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, sliced into thin ribbons
13 - 2 cups tomatoes, diced small (about 4 or 5 medium-sized) using ripe tomatoes for the best flavor

# Instructions:

01 - Mix garlic powder, Italian herbs, pepper, and ½ teaspoon of salt in a small bowl. Rub the blend evenly over the chicken on both sides and gently press it in.
02 - Drizzle 1-2 tablespoons olive oil into a skillet and warm it over medium heat. Lay the seasoned chicken in the pan and cook for 7–8 minutes on each side until the inside temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
03 - While waiting for the chicken to cook, toss together the diced tomatoes, basil, chopped onions, olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl. Stir it thoroughly.
04 - Take the chicken out of the skillet when it's fully cooked. Pour in 1 tablespoon olive oil along with the asparagus, a bit of water, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Sauté for around 4–5 minutes until the asparagus turns crisp and vibrant.
05 - Serve the chicken and asparagus together, spoon the fresh bruschetta topping over the chicken, and drizzle some balsamic glaze on top, if you'd like.

# Notes:

01 - The balsamic glaze is left out of the nutrition estimates.
02 - Pound the chicken to ensure even cooking and better tenderness.
03 - Campari tomatoes bring out amazing flavor for the topping.
04 - Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days in an airtight container, but keep the chicken and asparagus separate from the topping.
05 - Chicken freezes beautifully for 4–6 months, but the bruschetta mix shouldn't be frozen.