If you’re ready for a show-stopping chicken dish that packs bold Mediterranean flavor and irresistible freshness, my Grilled Chicken Margherita Supreme is about to become your new obsession. Think juicy grilled chicken breasts, luxurious melted mozzarella, vibrant basil pesto, and a cherry tomato-basil topping that’s summer on a plate—it’s a weeknight winner with restaurant-level flair!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Bold Flavors: The combination of grilled chicken, creamy mozzarella, pesto, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil makes every bite taste absolutely vibrant.
- Weeknight Friendly: You can have Grilled Chicken Margherita Supreme on the table in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy evenings or impromptu gatherings.
- Versatile & Customizable: It’s easy to adapt to different tastes, dietary needs, or whatever you have on hand, making it a real go-to family favorite.
- Jaw-Dropping Presentation: The gorgeous colors and melty cheese make every plate look like it came from a chef’s kitchen—without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This short list of fresh, simple ingredients is precisely what makes Grilled Chicken Margherita Supreme so mouthwatering. Each component brings something unique to the table, so don’t skimp—these flavors truly shine together!
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Pounded thin for quick, even grilling and extra juiciness. Choose high-quality for best results.
- Salt and Pepper: Don’t underestimate good seasoning—it’s foundational for flavor.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness, keeps chicken moist, and helps seasonings cling.
- Garlic Powder: Offers a gentle garlicky kick without any fuss.
- Italian Seasoning: (Or dried oregano, basil, and thyme) Delivers that classic herby aroma Margherita dishes are celebrated for.
- Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: The magic ingredient for that melty, creamy finish—don’t be shy with thick slices!
- Homemade or Good-Quality Basil Pesto: A zesty, herby burst for topping (and homemade is always a winner!).
- Cherry Tomatoes: Bursting with sweetness and color, especially when halved for topping.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: A little acidity brightens up the tomatoes and ties the dish together.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Sliced super thin for a shower of fresh flavor and an eye-catching green pop.
- Cracked Black Pepper: Just a little at the end elevates everything—you’ll notice the difference!
Variations
Part of what makes Grilled Chicken Margherita Supreme so much fun is how endlessly adaptable it is. You can personalize this recipe to suit your family’s cravings or fit what’s in your pantry—don’t be afraid to get creative or change things up.
- Swap the Cheese: Try provolone, fontina, or even burrata for a unique (and extra creamy) twist.
- Pesto Alternatives: Use sun-dried tomato pesto or a nut-free basil spread if desired, or swirl in a bit of homemade ricotta for richness.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap grilled eggplant or portobello mushrooms for chicken—just as satisfying when topped Margherita-style!
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top or add sliced jalapeños to your tomato salad if you love a bit of heat.
- Grill Indoors: No outdoor grill? A grill pan or even a broiler works wonders.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Margherita Supreme
Step 1: Marinate and Pre-Season the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken breasts in a roomy bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Toss everything together so each piece is well coated—this quick “marinade” is all you need for juicy, flavorful chicken. Let it sit while you prep toppings, or chill for up to an hour if you have time.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Fire up your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high. Place chicken on the hot grates and cook for 6–8 minutes per side, or until no longer pink inside and the juices run clear. The even thickness ensures perfect cooking—and those grill marks always impress!
Step 3: Add Mozzarella and Melt
Once the chicken is cooked through, add a thick slice of mozzarella to each piece. Close the grill lid (or tent with foil if using a pan) for about one minute, so the cheese melts into a gorgeous blanket over the chicken.
Step 4: Prep Tomato Basil Salad
While the cheese is melting, toss the halved cherry tomatoes in a small bowl with fresh lemon juice and the thinly sliced basil. This quick salad adds zippy brightness and beautiful color to every serving.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve!
Place the cheesy chicken breasts on plates. Spoon a generous three tablespoons of pesto over each, top with a hearty scoop of tomato-basil salad, then finish with cracked black pepper. That’s the Grilled Chicken Margherita Supreme experience—hot, fresh, and ready to wow!
Pro Tips for Making Grilled Chicken Margherita Supreme
- Chicken Evenness Matters: Pound your chicken breasts to the same thickness—this guarantees juicy meat and perfect grilling every time.
- Go Homemade with Pesto: If you have five minutes, homemade basil pesto absolutely takes Grilled Chicken Margherita Supreme to the next level!
- Let Cheese Rest: After melting mozzarella, let the chicken sit for a minute or two off the grill—this helps set the cheese so it’s deliciously oozy, not runny.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, aim for an internal temperature of 165° F at the thickest point.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Margherita Supreme
Garnishes
The finishing touch is a shower of ultra-thin, ribboned basil and a sprinkle of extra cracked black pepper. For an extra pop, a drizzle of really good olive oil or a few shavings of Parmesan work wonders—these little bits make every bite sing.
Side Dishes
I love to pair Grilled Chicken Margherita Supreme with a side of garlic bread, a lightly dressed arugula salad, or buttery roasted potatoes. For a hearty meal, think lemony orzo, grilled asparagus, or even a simple couscous—super versatile for any vibe!
Creative Ways to Present
You can turn this dish into gorgeous open-faced sandwiches on grilled sourdough, slice it for summertime wraps, or serve family-style on a big platter with tomatoes and basil scattered all around—it’ll steal the spotlight at any cookout or dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Grilled Chicken Margherita Supreme (lucky you!), store the cooled chicken, pesto, and tomato salad in separate airtight containers in the fridge. This keeps everything vibrant and prevents sogginess—for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Grilled chicken (sans toppings) freezes beautifully—wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh toppings for the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the oven at 325°F until heated through, then add cheese during the last few minutes to remelt. Add fresh pesto and tomato salad just before serving for that signature “Supreme” experience.
FAQs
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Can I make Grilled Chicken Margherita Supreme without a grill?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a stovetop grill pan or even a broiler works wonderfully. You’ll still get beautiful char and flavor, and the cheese melts just as well under a broiler for that classic Margherita finish.
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What’s the best way to keep chicken breasts juicy?
Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness is key! Also, don’t overcook them—remove from the heat as soon as the internal temperature hits 165°F. Letting the chicken rest a few minutes before serving helps retain juiciness, too.
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time for a party?
Yes! Grill the chicken ahead and store in the fridge. When it’s party time, simply warm the chicken, add cheese to melt, and top with fresh pesto and the tomato-basil salad right before serving for maximum color and flavor.
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Is Grilled Chicken Margherita Supreme gluten-free?
The main recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check the ingredients in your pesto and be sure not to serve with gluten-containing sides unless desired.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a meal that’s as simple as it is stunning, Grilled Chicken Margherita Supreme is your answer. I hope you give this a try the next time you’re craving something fresh, flavorful, and completely satisfying—bring a little sunshine to your table and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Pesto Caprese Grilled Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Grilled Chicken Margherita is a delicious and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with melted mozzarella cheese, fresh basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, and a burst of lemon juice. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to less than 1 inch thickness
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, (OR 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano + 1/4 teaspoon dried basil + 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme)
Toppings:
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup packed basil leaves, very thinly sliced
- Cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: In a large bowl, combine chicken, salt, pepper, olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Toss to combine.
- Grill Chicken: Grill chicken over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes on each side until cooked through. Top each piece with mozzarella cheese and cook for another minute until melted.
- Assemble: Toss tomatoes, lemon juice, and basil together. Top each chicken breast with pesto, tomatoes, and cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
