If you’re searching for a showstopper main course that’s quick enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for company, Grilled Chicken Margherita is the answer every home cook craves. Tender, juicy chicken breasts sizzle on the grill, topped with creamy fresh mozzarella, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a riot of fresh basil, all finished with a gleaming drizzle of balsamic glaze. This Italian-American classic bridges summer freshness with pure comfort—a dish you’ll return to all season long.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of top-quality, vibrant ingredients can create such layers of flavor, color, and irresistible aroma. Each element in Grilled Chicken Margherita works together, blending savory, creamy, tangy, and herbal notes for a truly memorable bite.
- Chicken Breasts: Go for boneless, skinless breasts—uniform size will help cook them evenly and keep them juicy.
- Olive Oil: A light brush ensures juicy meat and a gorgeous golden sear on the grill.
- Italian Seasoning: Brings an herby, savory background that’s unmistakably Mediterranean.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle, mellow garlic essence that plays beautifully with the other spices.
- Salt and Pepper: Sprinkle generously to make all those fresh flavors pop!
- Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Slices melt luxuriously over hot chicken, giving that signature Margherita stretch.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Their juicy sweetness combines with the creamy mozzarella for the perfect bite.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Whether chopped or left whole, basil is essential for its signature fragrant, peppery flavor.
- Balsamic Glaze: Adds a sweet and tangy finishing touch that brings everything together.
- Lemon Wedges (Optional): A spritz of fresh lemon brightens the flavors right before serving.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Margherita
Step 1: Prep the Grill and Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, making sure those grates are clean and well-oiled for the perfect sear. Pat your chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels—that little step truly helps the oil and seasoning adhere. Brush both sides with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Now your chicken is prepped to perfection!
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Let them cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes per side, flipping only once for optimum grill marks and juiciness. Check for doneness—the internal temperature should hit 165°F (74°C). Resist the urge to press the chicken; let the grill do its magic for that tender result.
Step 3: Melt the Mozzarella
When you’re about 1 or 2 minutes from finished, gently lay a slice of fresh mozzarella on each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to trap the heat and watch the cheese slowly melt into creamy ribbons—this is where Grilled Chicken Margherita turns irresistible!
Step 4: Assemble the Toppings
As soon as you pull the chicken off the grill, top each breast with juicy halved cherry tomatoes and a flurry of fresh basil. Go rustic or arrange artfully—either way, this moment brings a burst of color and freshness.
Step 5: Finish with Balsamic Glaze
Right before serving, drizzle that glossy balsamic glaze generously over each piece. The tangy sweetness ties all the flavors together, making each bite of your Grilled Chicken Margherita sing. Optional: add lemon wedges on the side for anyone who loves an extra citrusy kick.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Margherita
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a fresh garnish! Extra basil leaves scattered on top add fragrance and a vivid pop of green, while a crack of black pepper or an extra swirl of olive oil gives even more Italian flair to your Grilled Chicken Margherita. If you have a lemon handy, tuck in a few wedges for a splash of brightness right at the table.
Side Dishes
Pairing Grilled Chicken Margherita with the right sides can transform your meal into a summery feast. Think simple: a crisp green salad, herby quinoa, grilled vegetables, or garlic-roasted potatoes all make fantastic companions. For low-carb dinners, try grilled zucchini ribbons or cauliflower rice. Don’t forget a chunk of crusty bread to mop up any cheesy, tomatoey juices!
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this dish into an eye-catching centerpiece with some creative plating. For a family-style look, slice the chicken breasts and arrange them fanned out on a large platter, showered with tomatoes, basil, and that dramatic balsamic glaze. For a picnic or party, serve each Grilled Chicken Margherita on a toasted ciabatta roll for a knockout sandwich that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Grilled Chicken Margherita is a real treat! Store any remaining chicken, with or without toppings, in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before refrigerating to preserve the freshness and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, skip the fresh tomato and basil toppings at first. Simply wrap the cooked chicken and mozzarella tightly in foil or a freezer bag, freeze for up to 2 months, and add the fresh toppings after reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken in a covered baking dish and warm it in a 325°F oven until hot throughout, about 10–15 minutes. Or, microwave in short bursts, adding fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze just before serving so everything tastes freshly made.
FAQs
Can I cook Grilled Chicken Margherita on a stovetop grill pan?
Absolutely! A stovetop grill pan works beautifully if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill. Preheat the pan thoroughly, and follow the same instructions for grilling and topping your chicken.
What’s the best way to tell when chicken is fully cooked?
The most reliable way is using a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, slice into the thickest part; it should be opaque and the juices should run clear.
Can I use different cheeses for Grilled Chicken Margherita?
For classic flavor, fresh mozzarella is the gold standard, but you can certainly try sliced provolone or fontina in a pinch. They’ll melt nicely and offer a slightly different twist.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Grill the chicken ahead, then simply top with fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze right before eating. This keeps the flavors bright and textures ideal for make-ahead lunches or dinners.
What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
You can make a quick version by simmering balsamic vinegar in a small pan until it thickens and sweetens, or drizzle straight vinegar for a zestier bite if you’re short on time.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your ticket to a dinner that’s easy, memorable, and seriously crave-worthy. Whether you’re grilling for family or treating yourself on a quiet summer night, Grilled Chicken Margherita is sure to bring smiles and seconds. I hope it finds its way into your regular mealtime rotation!
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Grilled Chicken Margherita Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the flavors of Italy with this Grilled Chicken Margherita recipe. Tender chicken breasts seasoned to perfection, topped with gooey mozzarella, fresh cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Drizzled with balsamic glaze, it’s a taste of summer in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings:
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped or whole)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the grill: Heat the grill to medium-high.
- Prepare the chicken: Brush chicken with olive oil, season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the chicken: Cook for 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked (165°F).
- Add toppings: Place mozzarella on chicken during last minutes of grilling. Top with tomatoes and basil.
- Drizzle and serve: Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving. Serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Marinate chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for added flavor.
- Roast cherry tomatoes for a sweeter taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with toppings
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
