Grilled Chicken Margherita Italian

Category: Satisfying Main Dishes

Grilled Chicken Margherita brings together juicy chicken breasts, seasoned and flame-grilled to perfection, finished with a layer of melted mozzarella and fresh tomatoes. The addition of basil lends fragrant, herbaceous notes, while a final drizzle of balsamic glaze delivers a tangy-sweet touch. This Italian-inspired meal balances vibrant flavors and textures, creating a satisfying main dish ideal for summer dinners or weeknight gatherings. Serve hot with salad, pasta, or your favorite roasted seasonal vegetables for a fresh, colorful plate that never fails to please.

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Updated on Wed, 21 May 2025 22:54:13 GMT
A plate of food with tomatoes and cheese. Pin
A plate of food with tomatoes and cheese. | easydiyrecipes.com

Grilled Chicken Margherita blends classic Italian flavors with a fresh-off-the-grill touch. Tender chicken breasts become the perfect base for creamy mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil while a balsamic glaze brings it all together in a dish that feels equally special for weeknights or gatherings.

The first time I made this grilled chicken my family could not stop talking about the combination of melty cheese with the smoky chicken. Now we share it at almost every summer cookout.

Ingredients

  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts: choose plump cuts for juiciness
  • Olive oil: a little fat helps flavor and keeps the chicken from sticking
  • Italian seasoning: brings instant herby depth seek out mixes with oregano and basil highlighted
  • Salt and pepper: essential for seasoning each layer and boosting flavor
  • Fresh mozzarella cheese slices: look for soft creamy cheese from the deli section
  • Roma tomatoes: thinly sliced for juiciness without overwhelming
  • Fresh basil leaves: never skip this finishing touch for fragrance and color
  • Balsamic glaze: choose a thick syrupy glaze or make your own for a tangy contrast

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:
Pat each chicken breast completely dry using paper towels. Brush both sides generously with olive oil and rub in Italian seasoning salt and pepper. Make sure to coat evenly for the best flavor.
Preheat and Grill:
Heat your grill to medium-high. Clean and oil the grates to help prevent sticking. Place the chicken directly over the heat and grill for about five to seven minutes per side until deep grill marks appear and juices run clear. Use an instant-read thermometer and cook until the thickest part reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Top with Cheese and Tomato:
About two minutes before the chicken is done lay a slice of fresh mozzarella and a few thin tomato slices over each breast. Close the grill lid to help the cheese melt smoothly and gently soften the tomato.
Finish and Serve:
Carefully transfer the chicken to a plate. Scatter torn fresh basil leaves on top. Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze just before serving for a glossy finish.
A plate of chicken with tomatoes and herbs. Pin
A plate of chicken with tomatoes and herbs. | easydiyrecipes.com

The fresh mozzarella is my personal favorite part because it melts into a creamy layer without overpowering the other flavors. A summer evening eating this on the patio became a fun family tradition after a big garden basil harvest one year.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftovers in a tightly sealed container for up to three days. For best texture reheat the chicken gently and add fresh basil and a new drizzle of balsamic before serving. I often slice leftovers onto salads for a quick lunch the next day.

Ingredient Substitutions

If mozzarella is not available provolone or burrata also melt beautifully. Use heirloom or grape tomatoes when Roma are out of season for a splash of extra flavor. You can swap balsamic glaze for a squeeze of lemon if you prefer a different acidity profile.

Serving Suggestions

This grilled chicken margherita pairs beautifully with simple sides like herbed couscous pasta fresca or grilled seasonal vegetables. I love serving it alongside arugula salad dressed with a little lemon and olive oil for a bright contrast.

Chicken with tomatoes and cheese. Pin
Chicken with tomatoes and cheese. | easydiyrecipes.com

Cultural and Historical Context

Inspired by the classic pizza margherita this recipe carries in layers of Italian heritage using colors that mirror the Italian flag. The combination of mozzarella tomato and basil was first created in Naples to honor Queen Margherita over a century ago.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chicken works best for grilling?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal as they cook quickly and stay tender on the grill.

→ How can I melt the cheese perfectly?

Top the chicken with mozzarella during the last two minutes of grilling and close the lid to allow the cheese to melt.

→ Can I substitute another cheese for mozzarella?

Yes, provolone or burrata also work well for a different flavor and texture.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Herbed couscous, grilled zucchini, salads, or roasted vegetables complement the flavors beautifully.

→ How do I make balsamic glaze at home?

Reduce balsamic vinegar with a bit of honey on the stove until thickened, stirring frequently.

→ How do I keep chicken moist on the grill?

Brush the chicken with olive oil before grilling and avoid overcooking for a juicy result.

grilled chicken margherita italian

Tender chicken grilled, topped with mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a fresh finish.

Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
15 min
Total Time
25 min
By: Evelyn

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: Italian-American

Yield: 4 Servings (4 chicken breasts)

Dietary Preferences: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Main

01 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
04 Salt, to taste
05 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Toppings

06 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
07 2 Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced
08 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
09 Balsamic glaze, for drizzling

Steps

Step 01

Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with olive oil, then season evenly with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 02

Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 03

Place chicken on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 75°C and defined grill marks appear.

Step 04

In the final 2 minutes of grilling, top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella and layer on tomato slices. Close the grill lid to melt the cheese.

Step 05

Remove chicken from the grill. Garnish immediately with fresh basil and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Serve hot alongside fresh salad, pasta, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

  1. For a richer topping, substitute mozzarella with burrata or provolone, or add a thin slice of prosciutto beneath the cheese.
  2. Homemade balsamic glaze can be achieved by simmering balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey until thickened.
  3. Pairs exceptionally well with herbed couscous or grilled zucchini.

Tools Required

  • Outdoor or stovetop grill
  • Sharp knife
  • Tongs
  • Cutting board
  • Meat thermometer
  • Basting brush

Allergy Info

Double-check all ingredients to spot potential allergens. Consult a healthcare professional if uncertain.
  • Contains milk (mozzarella cheese)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes only and shouldn’t replace professional medical advice.
  • Calories: 353
  • Fats: 18.6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5.2 g
  • Proteins: 41.7 g