Can I substitute another cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella melts like a dream, provolone or fontina are delicious alternatives if you’re feeling fancy.

How can I store leftovers?

Pop any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium-low heat so the chicken stays juicy.

Is Grilled Chicken Margherita good for meal prep?

Totally! Grill the chicken ahead, store the tomato topping separately, and assemble right before eating for max freshness.

Grilled Chicken Margherita - Chicken magic recipes

Description

Grilled Chicken Margherita bursts with vibrant Italian flavors, featuring juicy grilled chicken breasts topped with melty mozzarella, roasted cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil pesto. A quick, healthy, and absolutely delicious dinner perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests!

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to less than 1 inch thickness
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or ½ tsp dried oregano + ¼ tsp dried basil + ¼ tsp dried thyme)
4 slices mozzarella cheese
½ cup basil pesto (try my Easy 5 Minute Pesto Recipe)
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
½ cup packed basil leaves, very thinly sliced
Cracked black pepper, for garnish

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine chicken breasts, salt, pepper, olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.
Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat.
Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side until cooked through and nicely charred.
Top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella cheese and cover the grill or pan for 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts.
Meanwhile, in a bowl, toss cherry tomatoes with lemon juice and sliced basil.
Transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Spoon about 3 tablespoons of pesto over each piece.
Top with the tomato mixture and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for even cooking.
Fresh mozzarella works beautifully for creamier texture.
No grill? A grill pan or hot skillet works great indoors.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a pan.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Category: Main Dish
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with toppings
Calories: 475 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 640 mg
Fat: 29 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 7 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 43 g
Cholesterol: 115 mg