This Easy Grilled Chicken Margherita is a tasty dish! Juicy chicken is topped with melted mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and fragrant basil. It’s simple, colorful, and super satisfying!
I love making this when I want a quick meal that’s fancy enough for guests. Just grill, layer, and serve! Plus, it makes my kitchen smell amazing. Who could resist that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. You can swap them for chicken thighs if you prefer a more juicy option. Just keep an eye on cooking time as thighs might take a little longer.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps with grilling. You can substitute with avocado oil if you need a higher smoke point or use vegetable oil in a pinch.
Fresh Mozzarella: It’s key for that melty texture! If you can’t find it, try using provolone or even shredded mozzarella. Just remember, the fresher, the better!
Cherry Tomatoes: These give a burst of flavor! If unavailable, you can use diced regular tomatoes, but be sure to drain any excess juice.
Pesto Sauce: While store-bought is convenient, homemade pesto has a unique flavor. You can easily make it with basil, garlic, and nuts. If nut allergies are a concern, swap them with sunflower seeds.
What’s the Best Way to Grill Chicken for Even Cooking?
Grilling chicken to perfection takes a bit of technique. Here’s a simple way to make sure your chicken is juicy and has nice grill marks:
- Start by pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness. This helps them cook uniformly and prevents drying out.
- Preheat your grill before adding the chicken. This keeps the chicken from sticking and creates those lovely grill marks.
- Cook over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- In the last 2 minutes, add cheese on top so it melts perfectly without overcooking the chicken.
Easy Grilled Chicken Margherita
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced into thin strips
- 1/4 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take you roughly 30 minutes to prepare and cook. If you decide to make your own pesto, just add a little extra time for that. It’s quick, fun, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First, get your grill warmed up! Set it to medium-high heat to make sure it’s hot and ready for the chicken.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound them to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly, so they’re juicy and tender.
3. Season the Chicken:
Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the chicken. Then sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, and pepper generously. Rub the spices in well to make sure they stick!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Time to grill! Put the chicken on the hot grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Look for nice grill marks and make sure the chicken is no longer pink in the middle.
5. Add the Mozzarella:
For the last 2 minutes of cooking, place a slice of mozzarella cheese on each piece of chicken. Close the grill lid to let the cheese melt slightly, making it gooey and delicious.
6. Finish Up:
Carefully take the chicken off the grill and place it on a serving plate. Spoon the pesto sauce evenly over each chicken breast to add flavor.
7. Add the Toppings:
Top it off with quartered cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves. For an extra touch, drizzle with balsamic glaze if you like that sweet tang.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in while it’s still warm! You’ve just made a delightful Grilled Chicken Margherita that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can, but make sure to fully thaw it before grilling. The best method is to leave it in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker thawing.
Can I Substitute the Mozzarella Cheese?
Absolutely! If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, you can use regular shredded mozzarella or even provolone for a different twist. Just keep in mind that fresh mozzarella gives that melty, creamy texture that complements the dish perfectly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You may want to add a bit more pesto or drizzle over some olive oil to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prep the chicken ahead by seasoning it and storing it in the fridge (ideally not more than 24 hours in advance). Grill it up just before serving to ensure it’s fresh and warm. You can also prepare the toppings (tomatoes, basil, and pesto) beforehand!
