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.