This 30-minute Grilled Bruschetta Chicken is a tasty dish featuring juicy chicken topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s colorful and packed with flavor!
Cooking this dish feels like a breeze! I love serving it with a side salad for a refreshing meal. Plus, who doesn’t love a quick dinner that looks so fancy? 🍅🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep it lean and quick. For a twist, use turkey breasts or even grilled portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: This adds a nice richness. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil is a great substitute for high heat cooking.
Italian Seasoning: A mix of herbs adds flavor. You can use dried oregano, basil, and thyme individually if that’s what you have on hand.
Diced Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are best, but canned diced tomatoes work too. For a sweeter flavor, cherry tomatoes make a lovely substitution.
Basil: Fresh basil brings a wonderful aroma. If you can’t find it, dried basil can substitute, but use less (about a teaspoon).
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it right! First, preheat your grill to ensure a good sear. Make sure to brush the oil and seasoning mix evenly on both sides of the chicken for flavor and moisture.
- Cook chicken for about 7-8 minutes on each side, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling keeps it juicy!
30-Minute Grilled Bruschetta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bruschetta Topping:
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking the chicken and preparing the bruschetta topping. It’s quick, fresh, and super tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First, get your grill heated up! Preheat it to medium-high heat so that it’s nice and ready for the chicken.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Once mixed, take a brush and coat both sides of each chicken breast with this flavorful mixture. This will help keep the chicken juicy and add delicious flavors!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 7-8 minutes on each side. You want them to be fully cooked, so keep an eye on the internal temperature—it should reach 165°F for safety!
4. Make the Bruschetta Topping:
While the chicken is grilling, let’s whip up the bruschetta! In a separate bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, and a little pinch of salt. Give it a good mix, and your fresh topping is ready!
5. Rest the Chicken:
Once your chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep all the juices in, making your chicken nice and tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Top each grilled chicken breast with a generous scoop of the bruschetta mix. If you like, drizzle some balsamic glaze on top for extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, fresh grilled bruschetta chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness to your dish. Just adjust the grilling time slightly since thighs may take a bit longer to cook. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F, just like with breasts.
How Do I Store Leftover Bruschetta Chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave or on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. If the bruschetta has gotten watery, you can mix it again before serving.
Can I Make the Bruschetta Topping Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the bruschetta topping up to a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to use it to maintain freshness. If you plan to make it a day ahead, add the balsamic vinegar just before serving to keep the tomatoes firm.
What Can I Serve with Grilled Bruschetta Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or even grilled vegetables. You can also serve it over pasta or quinoa for a more substantial meal. Enjoy exploring different ways to complement it!
