This tasty grilled chicken topped with fresh tomatoes and basil is quick and simple! Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a busy day or a last-minute dinner idea.
Honestly, who can resist that bright, colorful topping? I often serve it with a side salad, and it feels like a fancy meal without the fuss. Yum! 🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for even cooking on the grill. If you’re looking for a different protein, try boneless thighs for juiciness or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps prevent sticking on the grill. If olive oil isn’t available, avocado oil works great and has a similar flavor profile.
Italian Seasoning: This blend gives an amazing herb flavor. If you don’t have it, mix dried oregano, basil, and thyme for a quick alternative.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are ideal for the topping. If tomatoes aren’t in season, you can use canned diced tomatoes; just drain the excess liquid. For a twist, try cherry tomatoes for sweet bites.
Basil: Fresh basil is the star here, offering a lovely aroma. If fresh isn’t available, dried basil can work, but use less as it’s more potent.
How Can I Grill Chicken to Get It Just Right?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with the right steps, you can achieve perfectly juicy results. Here’s how:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. A hot grill is key to a good sear that keeps juices in.
- Brush both sides of the chicken with the olive oil mixture to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Cook on one side for 6-7 minutes without moving it. This develops nice grill marks.
- Flip the chicken and continue grilling until it reaches an internal temp of 165°F (75°C). Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving to let those juices redistribute.
Following these tips, your chicken will be tender and tasty every time! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make 30-Minute Grilled Bruschetta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled bruschetta chicken takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and getting the grill ready, and then about 20 minutes grilling the chicken and mixing up the topping. Perfect for a quick and tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill:
First, get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. This ensures your chicken will cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks!
2. Preparing the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush this tasty mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts. Make sure they’re nicely coated, as this will add great flavor.
3. Grilling the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want them to be fully cooked, so check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). That’s how you know they’re ready!
4. Making the Tomato-Basil Topping:
While the chicken is grilling, chop the tomatoes and basil. In a bowl, mix the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Stir everything together and set it aside. This fresh topping will really elevate your dish!
5. Finishing Touches:
Once your chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy. After resting, top each chicken breast with a generous spoonful of your delicious tomato-basil mixture. If you like a little extra sweetness, drizzle some balsamic glaze on top.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your grilled bruschetta chicken immediately and enjoy every bite! It’s a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s sure to impress.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can make this dish even juicier. Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a couple of extra minutes to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If you’re out of fresh basil, you can use dried basil instead! Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so start with less and adjust according to your taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the chicken and the tomato-basil mixture in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should be good for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stove to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Without a Grill?
Definitely! If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Just ensure the chicken still reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
