This Easy Grilled Chicken Margherita is a delicious and simple dish. Juicy grilled chicken topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and gooey mozzarella makes it a real treat!
You can enjoy this meal any night of the week! Just grill it up, and you’ve got a colorful plate that looks fancy but is super easy to make. Trust me, it’s a win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling. If you prefer, you can substitute them with chicken thighs for more flavor and moisture. Just cook them slightly longer.
Olive Oil: This adds a lovely richness. If you want a different taste, you can use avocado oil or melted butter instead.
Garlic Powder: This lends a nice garlicky flavor. If you have fresh garlic, feel free to use one or two minced cloves instead.
Fresh Mozzarella: The gooey texture is a must! However, you can substitute with provolone or even something like gouda for a twist.
Pesto: Store-bought pesto is a quick option, but homemade is fresher. You can swap it out for a balsamic glaze if you like a tangy contrast.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness. If they’re not available, diced regular tomatoes work too; just drain excess juice.
How Do I Grill Chicken So It’s Juicy?
Getting juicy grilled chicken is all about the technique. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with pounded chicken for even cooking.
- Marinate or brush on olive oil and seasoning before grilling. This locks in moisture.
- Cook on medium-high heat to get that nice sear and caramelization.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s cooked but still juicy!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This keeps it tender and juicy.
By following these tips, your grilled chicken will be flavorful and moist every time!
How to Make 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 black pepper to taste
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/3 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, for garnish
- Fresh cracked black pepper for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. So, in just 25 minutes, you can have this tasty Grilled Chicken Margherita ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F (200°C). If you don’t have a grill, no worries! A grill pan on the stove works just as well.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
To ensure even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
3. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Then, brush this flavorful mixture over both sides of each chicken breast.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Now, place the chicken on the hot grill. Let it cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You should see nice grill marks!
5. Add the Cheese:
In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add a slice of fresh mozzarella on each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to let the cheese melt beautifully.
6. Finish and Serve:
Once the chicken is grilled and the cheese is melted, remove them from the grill and place on serving plates. Spoon fresh basil pesto over each cheesy chicken breast, then top with the quartered cherry tomatoes. Garnish with thinly sliced fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper.
7. Enjoy!
Serve this delightful dish immediately. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some grilled vegetables for a light and fresh meal. Enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken Margherita
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just cook them a little longer to ensure they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Chicken Margherita in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to preserve the texture of the cheese.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can prep the chicken and marinate it with the olive oil mixture earlier in the day or the night before. Just grill it fresh right before serving for the best flavor and texture!
What Can I Use if I Don’t Have Pesto?
No pesto? No problem! You can use a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a light olive oil dressing instead. For a fresh herb flavor, try combining olive oil with chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
