Grilled Chicken Margherita

4.9
(8)

Grilled marinated chicken, topped with melted mozzarella, pesto, and cherry tomatoes makes a delicious summer meal! Serve with rice or angel hair pasta.

a grilled chicken breast topped with melted mozzarella, cherry tomatoes and pesto, served on a bed of angel hair pasta
3
3
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
10 mins
Marinate Time:
4 hrs
Total Time:
4 hrs 30 mins
Servings:
4
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Ingredients

  • 4 (6 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breasts

  • ¼ cup olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes

  • 4 fresh basil leaves, minced

  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

  • salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

  • 4 slices mozzarella cheese

  • ¼ cup basil pesto

Directions

  1. Gently pound chicken breasts into even thickness using the smooth side of a meat mallet, about 1/2 inch thick. Place chicken into a resealable plastic bag.

  2. Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt in a small bowl. Pour over chicken, coat evenly, and marinate for 4 to 8 hours.

  3. Combine cherry tomatoes, basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

  4. Preheat an outdoor grill for medium heat; lightly oil the grate.

  5. Remove chicken from marinade and grill with the lid closed for 4 minutes. Flip chicken and grill an additional 3 to 4 minutes. Top each breast with a slice of mozzarella cheese and 1 tablespoon of pesto, then top with cherry tomatoes. Close lid on grill and continue grilling until cheese is melted and chicken is no longer pink inside, about 3 more minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Using a spatula, carefully remove chicken to a serving platter.

Cook's Note:

If you are worried about tomatoes falling through the grill grates, place chicken on a sheet of foil or in a disposable foil pan before adding toppings.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

471 Calories
27g Fat
5g Carbs
49g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 4
Calories 471
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 27g 35%
Saturated Fat 7g 36%
Cholesterol 122mg 41%
Sodium 652mg 28%
Total Carbohydrate 5g 2%
Dietary Fiber 1g 4%
Protein 49g 99%
Potassium 603mg 13%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.