Grilled Chicken Margherita
Juicy herb-seasoned grilled chicken topped with melty mozzarella, fresh pesto, and tomato basil relish. A quick, flavorful dish perfect for summer nights or any busy weeknight meal.
Equipment
- Grill (or grill pan)
- Tongs
- Mixing Bowls
Ingredients
Meat
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (400g) – pounded to less than 1-inch thickness
Condiments
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup basil pesto (120g) (homemade or store-bought)
Baking & Spices
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder (5g)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (OR ½ tsp dried oregano, ¼ tsp dried basil, ¼ tsp dried thyme) (5g)
Dairy
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese (100g)
Produce
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes – halved (100g)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (15 ml)
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves – thinly sliced (20g)
Instructions
Preparing and Grilling the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine chicken breasts, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Toss well to coat.
- Grill chicken over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
Topping and Serving
- Place a slice of mozzarella on each chicken breast and allow it to melt for 1 minute on the grill.
- In a separate bowl, combine tomatoes, lemon juice, and basil.
- Top each chicken breast with 3 tbsp pesto and a spoonful of the tomato-basil mixture. Garnish with cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.
Notes:
- Lighter Alternatives: For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat mozzarella cheese or a lower-fat pesto. You can also use less olive oil for marinating the chicken.
- Ingredient Substitutions: If you prefer not to use pesto, marinara sauce can be an alternative. For a different flavor profile, try using Greek yogurt instead of cheese for a tangy touch.
- Storage Instructions: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken without toppings for up to 3 months.
- Reheating Tips: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make the chicken tough.
- Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and ripe tomatoes enhance the flavor of this dish. Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best taste and nutritional benefits.
Quick Tips:
- Thickening the Sauce: To thicken pesto, simmer it gently to reduce it or add a bit of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Improving Texture: For a crispier texture, lightly toast the mozzarella cheese under the broiler for a minute or two.
- Special Techniques: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavor. Grill the chicken over medium-high heat to achieve a perfect sear and juicy interior.
Side Dish Suggestions:
- Vegetables: Pair with a simple side of roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini, for a balanced meal.
- Salads: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
- Pasta: A side of garlic pasta or orzo adds a hearty element without overshadowing the main dish.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Protein: Chicken is a high-protein ingredient, which supports muscle growth and repair.
- Vitamins: Fresh basil and tomatoes provide essential vitamins A and C, which are beneficial for immune health and skin.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil and mozzarella cheese contribute healthy fats that are important for heart health.
Serving Suggestions:
- Portion Sizes: Serve one chicken breast per person, topped with a generous scoop of pesto and tomatoes.
- Presentation Tips: Arrange the chicken on a plate with the melted cheese and tomato topping neatly spread. Garnish with extra basil for a pop of color.
- Complementary Beverages: Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with a lemon wedge for a refreshing complement.
Meal Prep Tips:
- Prep Ahead: Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance to enhance the flavors. Pre-chop the tomatoes and basil for the topping.
- Storage Tips: Keep the marinated chicken and toppings in separate containers until ready to cook to prevent sogginess.
Customization Ideas:
- Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure that the pesto and any additional seasonings are gluten-free. Serve with a gluten-free pasta or side dish.
- Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and a vegan pesto made without cheese for a dairy-free version.
- Optional Add-Ins: Consider adding olives or sun-dried tomatoes to the pesto for extra flavor.
