This Easy Grilled Chicken Margherita is a sunny dish that brings together juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all topped with fragrant basil. Yum!
There’s something magical about grilled chicken topped with melted cheese! I often serve this with a side salad for a light meal. It’s like a mini-vacation on your plate! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they grill quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for alternatives, chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor, or even turkey breasts if that’s what you have.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps to keep chicken moist. If you’re out, vegetable oil or avocado oil work well too. Just avoid oils with strong flavors, as they might overpower the dish.
Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella gives a creamy texture. If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, use shredded mozzarella or even sliced provolone for a different twist, but try to avoid low-fat cheeses as they don’t melt well.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy, perfect for this dish. If you can’t find them, diced Roma tomatoes can work too. Adding a pinch of sugar can enhance the flavor of standard tomatoes.
Basil Pesto: While store-bought is convenient, homemade pesto is easy to make using fresh basil, garlic, nuts, and olive oil. If you’re allergic to nuts, you can leave them out or use sunflower seeds instead.
How Do You Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but following a few simple steps can ensure it turns out juicy and flavorful!
- Start by butterflying or pounding the chicken for even thickness. This helps it cook evenly.
- Don’t rush the marinating process—let the chicken soak in the olive oil mix for at least 15-30 minutes before grilling if you have time.
- Preheat your grill properly! A hot grill sears the surface, locking in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute for a tender bite.
Easy Grilled Chicken Margherita
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/4 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making a total of approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by heating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken gets a nice sear on the outside while cooking evenly inside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally to create an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. If you prefer, you can also gently pound them between sheets of plastic wrap for an even result. This helps the chicken cook quickly and evenly.
3. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This mixture will add wonderful flavor to the chicken. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with this olive oil mixture so they are well-coated.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. To ensure it’s done, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). It’s important not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy!
5. Melt the Cheese:
In the last minute of grilling, place a slice of mozzarella cheese on each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to help the cheese melt slightly. This will give you that delicious gooey texture!
6. Assemble and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked and the cheese is melted, transfer the chicken to your serving plates. Spoon the basil pesto generously over the melted mozzarella. Top each chicken breast with the quartered cherry tomatoes, and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Add a sprinkle of extra salt and pepper if desired, and serve immediately!
Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Easy Grilled Chicken Margherita!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken Margherita
Can I Use Skin-On Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts! Just keep in mind that the skin will need a bit more time to crisp up. Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What If I Don’t Have Pesto?
No problem! If you don’t have pesto on hand, you can either omit it or substitute it with olive oil and some minced garlic, or try using a store-bought garlic aioli for a creamy finish.
Can I Grill This Chicken Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can grill the chicken a day in advance. Just allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the grill or in the oven before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so in the oven or microwave, but be careful not to overcook it to prevent the chicken from drying out.
