Grilled Chicken Margherita Recipe

Introduction

Grilled Chicken Margherita is a fresh and flavorful twist on classic grilled chicken, topped with melty mozzarella, vibrant basil pesto, and a tangy tomato-balsamic topping. This easy recipe brings Italian-inspired colors and tastes to your dinner table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced)
• 1/2 cup basil pesto (homemade or store bought)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (cut in half)
• 2 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (thinly sliced)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Brush the grill grates clean, then oil them. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400-425°F).
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and turn to coat evenly.
3. Step 3: Place the chicken on the hot grill, close the lid, and cook for 5-6 minutes on the first side. Flip the chicken, cook for another 2 minutes, then top each breast with sliced mozzarella. Close the lid and continue grilling until the cheese melts and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken to a clean plate or cutting board and let rest.
4. Step 4: While the chicken cooks, combine the cherry tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and sliced fresh basil in a bowl. Add a pinch of salt and gently toss.
5. Step 5: Spread 1-2 tablespoons of basil pesto over each rested chicken breast.
6. Step 6: Spoon the tomato and basil mixture on top of the pesto. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cracked black pepper and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For extra smoky flavor, add a few wood chips to your grill while cooking.
• Substitute fresh mozzarella with burrata for a richer texture.
• Use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes for a deeper, sweeter taste.
• Make your own pesto to control the freshness and ingredients, or use a high-quality store-bought version for convenience.

Storage

Store leftover grilled chicken margherita in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in an air fryer at 375°F for 6-8 minutes or warm it in the oven until heated through, ensuring the cheese stays melty and the chicken remains juicy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?

Bone-in chicken breasts can be used, but they will require longer grilling time to ensure they cook through properly. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How do I know when the grilled chicken is done?

The safest way to know is by using an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C). The chicken should also have clear juices and no pink inside.

Grilled Chicken Margherita Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 78 reviews

This Grilled Chicken Margherita recipe combines juicy, seasoned chicken breasts with fresh mozzarella, basil pesto, and a vibrant cherry tomato basil topping. Perfectly grilled for a flavorful and healthy meal, it’s a delightful twist on traditional Margherita flavors with a wholesome protein twist.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Marinade

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings

• 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1/2 cup basil pesto (homemade or store bought)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
• 2 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Grill: Brush the grill grates clean and then oil them to prevent sticking. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 400-425°F.
2. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts thoroughly in this mixture to infuse them with flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill and close the lid. Grill for 5-6 minutes on the first side. Flip the chicken and grill for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add Mozzarella Cheese: After flipping, place slices of fresh mozzarella on each chicken breast. Close the grill lid and continue cooking until the cheese melts and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken and let it rest on a clean plate or cutting board.
5. Prepare Tomato Basil Topping: While the chicken cooks, combine halved cherry tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, sliced fresh basil, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Toss gently to mix flavors.
6. Apply Pesto: Spread 1-2 tablespoons of basil pesto over each grilled chicken breast evenly.
7. Assemble the Dish: Spoon the tomato and basil mixture over the pesto-topped chicken. Finish with freshly cracked black pepper for additional flavor. Serve immediately for best taste.
8. Store Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken margherita in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an air fryer at 375°F for 6-8 minutes or reheat in the oven.

Notes

• Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
• If homemade pesto is not available, use a quality store-bought version.
• Preheating and oiling the grill grates prevents the chicken from sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Resting the chicken after grilling allows juices to redistribute for a juicier bite.
• Leftover chicken can be reheated in an air fryer or oven to maintain texture and flavor.

Keywords: grilled chicken, chicken margherita, basil pesto chicken, mozzarella chicken, healthy grilled chicken, tomato basil chicken