Grilled Chicken Margherita

Grilled chicken Margherita is a delightful twist on the classic Italian flavors you love! Inspired by Olive Garden’s menu, it brings together juicy grilled chicken, creamy mozzarella, and vibrant cherry tomatoes. 

I love how this dish makes me feel like I’m dining al fresco in Italy.

It’s my new go-to for impressing guests without breaking a sweat (literally and figuratively – thank you, grill)!

Get ready to savor every bite of this mouthwatering copycat recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken Margherita

Gourmet Made Easy: This restaurant-quality dish can be prepared at home in under 30 minutes, impressing family and guests alike.

Delicious Flavor: The combination of grilled chicken, mozzarella, zesty pesto, and tangy tomatoes creates a mouthwatering Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.

Grilling Perfection: Showcase your barbecue skills while infusing the chicken with a delicious smoky char.

Visual Appeal: The vibrant colors of the fresh tomatoes, green pesto, and melted cheese make for an Instagram-worthy plate.

Ingredients

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Juicy and tender, they’re the perfect canvas for a flavorful grilled dish.
  
• Olive Oil: It adds richness and helps the seasonings adhere to the chicken.
  
• Seasonings: Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper infuse the chicken with aromatic and savory notes.
  
• Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Creamy and mild, it melts beautifully over the grilled chicken.
  
• Basil Pesto: Herbaceous and nutty, it provides a vibrant layer of flavor.
  
• Cherry Tomatoes, Halved: They add freshness and a pop of color.
  
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Fragrant and peppery, they enhance the dish with a touch of elegance.
  
• Balsamic Vinegar: It’s tangy, sweet, and balances the flavors perfectly.

How to Make Grilled Chicken Margherita

This chicken is so easy, but you’ll feel like a grill master after making it!

1. Preheat the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400-450°F).

2. Season the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the chicken breasts, olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

3. Grill the chicken. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

4. Add the cheese. During the last minute of cooking, top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella cheese. Close the grill lid to allow the cheese to melt.

5. Prepare the topping. In a small bowl, mix the halved cherry tomatoes with the sliced basil and balsamic vinegar. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

6. Rest the chicken. Once the chicken is cooked and the cheese is melted, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 2-3 minutes.

7. Assemble the dish. To serve, spread about 2 tablespoons of pesto over each chicken breast, then top with the tomato mixture.

Tips for the Best Grilled Chicken Margherita

Follow these simple tips for the true Olive Garden experience.

• Give ‘em a good pound. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking and prevent dry spots.
  
• Let it rest. Marinate the chicken in the olive oil, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder mixture overnight for maximum flavor penetration.
  
• The riper, the better. Choose ripe, in-season cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and texture in the topping.
  
• Clean up! Ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking and achieve those perfect grill marks.
  
• Try a two-zone trick. Set up your grill for two-zone cooking, allowing you to move the chicken if it’s browning too quickly.
  
• Room temperature is key. Bring the mozzarella to room temperature before grilling for quicker and more even melting.
  
• Give it a drizzle. For an extra flavor boost, reduce some balsamic vinegar to create a thicker, sweeter drizzle for the finished dish.
  
• Have fun and make it your own. Experiment with different cheeses like burrata or smoked mozzarella for unique flavor variations. Try using sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh, add grilled zucchini or eggplant, or use a red pepper pesto for a twist on the classic.

How to Store

Have leftover chicken? Follow these steps to store it.

To Store: Place cooled chicken in an air-tight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Keep the tomato topping separate to prevent fogginess.

To Freeze: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and adding fresh toppings.

To Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave on medium power until heated through. Add fresh tomato topping after reheating for the best flavor and texture.

More Hearty Chicken Dinners You’ll Love

Crockpot BBQ Chicken
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings
Crockpot Chicken and Rice
Chicken 65