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Grilled Chicken Margherita Recipe
Ash Tyrrell

Grilled Chicken Margherita Recipe

The very first time I made grilled chicken Margherita, I couldn’t help but marvel at how such simple ingredients could create something so spectacular. The juicy grilled chicken topped with gooey mozzarella cheese, a fresh tomato-basil garnish, and hints of garlic felt like an instant trip to Italy.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each; lean protein packed with flavor when grilled)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for marinating the chicken and enhancing flavor
  • 3 garlic cloves minced (fresh garlic adds bold, aromatic flavors)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt helps tenderize and season the chicken evenly
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper for balanced seasoning
  • 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced (the fresher, the better for vibrant flavor)
  • 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese sliced (melts beautifully for that creamy, chewy topping)
  • 1 bunch fresh basil leaves adds a fragrant, peppery note to the dish
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each; lean protein packed with flavor when grilled)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for marinating the chicken and enhancing flavor
  • 3 garlic cloves minced (fresh garlic adds bold, aromatic flavors)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt helps tenderize and season the chicken evenly
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper for balanced seasoning
  • 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced (the fresher, the better for vibrant flavor)
  • 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese sliced (melts beautifully for that creamy, chewy topping)
  • 1 bunch fresh basil leaves adds a fragrant, peppery note to the dish
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each; lean protein packed with flavor when grilled)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for marinating the chicken and enhancing flavor
  • 3 garlic cloves minced (fresh garlic adds bold, aromatic flavors)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt helps tenderize and season the chicken evenly
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper for balanced seasoning
  • 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced (the fresher, the better for vibrant flavor)
  • 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese sliced (melts beautifully for that creamy, chewy topping)
  • 1 bunch fresh basil leaves adds a fragrant, peppery note to the dish

Method
 

  1. Start by preparing a flavorful marinade. Combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Coat the boneless chicken breasts evenly, ensuring they’re fully covered in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes―longer if you want an even deeper flavor infusion.
  2. While the chicken marinates, make the magic sauce that ties everything together. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Then, toss in the diced tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices. Stir in freshly chopped basil leaves and set the sauce aside―the aroma alone will have you ready to eat!
  3. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat. Take the marinated chicken breasts and grill them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, depending on their thickness. The goal is to get those gorgeous grill marks and ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.
  4. Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a clean plate. Generously spoon the Margherita sauce over each breast. Layer slices of fresh mozzarella on top and return the chicken briefly to the grill. Close the grill lid and cook just until the cheese starts to melt and become irresistibly gooey.
  5. When ready to serve, sprinkle each chicken breast with a few fresh basil leaves. The basil adds a bright, herby note that perfectly complements the creamy cheese and sweet tomatoes. Plate it up, and enjoy the masterpiece you’ve created!

Notes

  • Choose the Freshest Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and basil make all the difference in capturing those authentic Italian flavors.
  • Avoid Overcooking the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to keep the chicken tender and juicy.
  • Enhance the Marinade: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice for a zingy flavor boost.
  • Layer That Sauce! Don’t skimp on the tomato mixture―it’s what makes every bite so delicious.