When I first made this Grilled Chicken Margherita, I couldn’t believe how quickly it came together while still tasting absolutely gourmet. The vibrant flavors of pesto and zesty tomatoes perfectly complemented the juicy grilled chicken, and the melted mozzarella sealed the deal.
It’s a dish that feels like a celebration, but it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser with minimal effort, this recipe is a must-try!
Credit: lecremedelacrumb
Ingredients
To craft this delicious Grilled Chicken Margherita yourself, you’ll need the following:
- 4 (6-ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breasts
Tip: Use fresh chicken for the juiciest results. If your chicken breasts are too thick, gently pound them to an even thickness before marinating. - ¼ cup olive oil
Why: This helps to seal in moisture and flavors during grilling. - 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Pro Tip: The tang of balsamic adds depth to the chicken marinade. - 1 clove garlic, minced
Why: Fresh garlic provides a punchy, aromatic flavor. - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Tip: A mix of herbs like oregano and basil for an authentic touch. - ½ teaspoon salt
Why: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and marinade. - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Pro Tip: Always use fresh, sweet cherry tomatoes for optimal flavor. - 4 fresh basil leaves, minced
Why: Fresh basil offers a fragrant, peppery note. - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Pro Tip: Lemon juice keeps the tomatoes bright and flavorful. - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
Why: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and pairs perfectly with the pesto. - ¼ cup basil pesto
Pro Tip: Use freshly made pesto if you can for unbeatable flavor.
Note: The above measurements are for four servings. Adjust accordingly for larger or smaller batches.
Variations
Love experimenting in the kitchen? Try these variations to suit your dietary preferences or taste:
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap out the mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese, or skip the cheese altogether and add extra tomatoes and pesto.
- Low-Carb Variation: Serve the chicken on a bed of zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to keep it keto-friendly.
- Flavor Boost: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra tang.
- Herb Swaps: If you’re out of fresh basil, use fresh parsley or cilantro for a unique twist.
Looking for even more tasty ideas? Try this easy one-pan balsamic chicken for another low-effort, big-flavor dinner
Cooking Time
Here’s how long it takes to create this flavorful dish:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Marinate Time: 4 hours
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes
Equipment You Need
Gather these tools for ease while cooking:
- Meat mallet: For pounding chicken into even thickness.
- Mixing bowls: To whisk and combine the marinade and tomato topping.
- Resealable bag or shallow dish: For marinating the chicken.
- Outdoor grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving those charred grill marks.
- Tongs or spatula: For flipping the chicken and transferring to a plate.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Margherita?
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness with the smooth side of a meat mallet. This ensures even cooking. Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt in a small mixing bowl. Pour this marinade over the chicken, ensuring all sides are coated evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for 4 to 8 hours so the flavors can fully penetrate the meat. Trust me, this step adds incredible flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Topping
Combine the halved cherry tomatoes, minced basil leaves, lemon juice, and a touch of salt and freshly ground black pepper in a bowl. This simple topping fills the dish with fresh, bright flavors.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your outdoor grill to medium heat (or use a grill pan) and lightly oil the grates. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and grill them with the lid closed for about 4 minutes on each side. Once you flip, add a slice of mozzarella cheese, a tablespoon of basil pesto, and a spoonful of the tomato topping on each piece. Close the lid again and grill for another 3 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the chicken from the grill using tongs or a spatula. Arrange attractively on a platter, garnish with extra basil, and serve immediately.
Credit: neighborfoodblog
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
Over time, I’ve learned a few tricks to refine this recipe even further:
- Don’t Rush the Marinade: Marinating for 4 hours (or overnight, if possible) makes a huge difference in flavor.
- Pound the Chicken Evenly: This ensures your chicken cooks evenly without drying out.
- Use High-Quality Cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts smoothly and tastes far better than pre-shredded versions.
- Grill Prep Matters: Always preheat and oil your grill to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Foil for Toppings: If you’re worried about losing the tomatoes through the grill, cook the chicken on a sheet of foil for the last few minutes.
You can also enjoy similar bold, crave-worthy flavors in this chicken birria tacos recipe.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Margherita?
For a complete meal, serve your Grilled Chicken Margherita over a bed of angel hair pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for added flair. For a lighter option, present it atop a dressed green salad. Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon for the perfect summer vibe.
Nutritional Information
This dish is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients! Here’s a breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 471
- Protein: 49g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 27g
Make Ahead and Storage
Making this ahead of time? Follow these tips:
- Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Freezing: Wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm the chicken gently in the oven at 300°F or in a skillet over low heat to retain its juicy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Here’s why Grilled Chicken Margherita will quickly become a favorite at your table:
- Low Maintenance: The marinade does most of the work, making it easy and stress-free.
- Versatile: Works as a main course, pasta topper, or salad addition.
- Flavor Packed: Tangy balsamic, creamy mozzarella, and vibrant pesto create a symphony of flavors.
- Customizable: Easily adapted for various diets or taste preferences.
- Impressive Presentation: Looks and tastes like something you’d get at a fancy restaurant.
Grilled Chicken Margherita isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience. By following this recipe, you’ll have a delicious, wholesome meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Serve it up and enjoy the compliments. If you’re planning meals ahead, explore more delicious chicken recipes to keep your weeknight dinners exciting.