Description
Sizzling summer nights call for grilled bruschetta chicken, a Mediterranean-inspired dish that marries juicy grilled chicken with zesty tomato and herb toppings. Fresh basil and tangy balsamic glaze elevate this simple yet elegant meal, promising a delightful dining experience you’ll savor with each flavorful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved or diced roma tomatoes)
- ¼ cup red onion (finely chopped)
- ¼ cup basil (fresh, chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- ¼ cup mozzarella or Parmesan cheese (shredded or shaved, optional)
- Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Seasoning Preparation: Coat chicken breasts with a liberal drizzle of olive oil, then generously sprinkle with Italian seasoning, ensuring an even distribution of salt and pepper across the surface.
- Grilling Process: Fire up the grill to a medium-high temperature around 400°F. Position chicken on the grates and cook for approximately 5-7 minutes per side, rotating once to achieve beautiful grill marks and ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F with clear juices.
- Bruschetta Composition: While chicken sizzles, craft the vibrant topping by gently combining diced tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, freshly torn basil leaves, minced garlic, and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and cracked pepper, allowing flavors to meld and intensify during the cooking process.
- Finale and Garnish: Once chicken is perfectly grilled, transfer to serving plates and crown each piece with a generous spoonful of the prepared bruschetta mixture. Optional: Enhance the dish by sprinkling a handful of shredded mozzarella or grated Parmesan for an extra layer of richness and flavor.
Notes
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness before seasoning to ensure uniform cooking and prevent dry edges.
- Marinate chicken in Italian seasoning and olive oil for 30 minutes before grilling to deepen taste and tenderize meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to precisely track internal temperature, avoiding overcooking that can make chicken tough and dry.
- Experiment with alternative herbs like oregano or add diced cucumber for extra crunch and freshness in the topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg