This 30-minute Grilled Bruschetta Chicken is a yummy dish bursting with flavor! Juicy chicken is topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic for a fresh taste in every bite.
You can whip this meal up in no time, which is perfect for busy weeknights. I love serving it with a side salad for the ultimate dinner on a plate. Quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish since they cook quickly and are lean. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey cutlets or tofu (for a vegetarian option) can also work nicely. Just adjust the cooking time for tofu.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for flavor, but you can use canola or avocado oil if you’re out. They have a higher smoke point and will also work well for grilling.
Italian Seasoning: This blend adds a lot of flavor, but if you lack it, mix dried basil, oregano, and thyme in equal parts. Personally, I also like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat!
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are key, but you can use canned diced tomatoes in a pinch. If you prefer a bit sweeter fruit, cherry tomatoes halved are also tasty!
Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely fragrant touch. If it’s not available, try using fresh parsley or dried basil (just use half the amount since dried is stronger).
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Juicy and Fully Cooked?
Grilling chicken perfectly is all about timing and temperature. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Preheat your grill thoroughly to medium-high heat. This ensures a good sear.
- Grill each chicken breast for about 6-7 minutes on each side, but don’t skip checking for doneness. Use a meat thermometer to confirm it hits 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist.
These simple tips will help you serve up tender, juicy chicken every time!
30-Minute Grilled Bruschetta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bruschetta Topping:
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
For Serving:
- Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Grilled Bruschetta Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Take each chicken breast and coat it evenly with this flavorful mixture. Don’t be shy—make sure each piece is well covered!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), so make sure they are cooked all the way through!
4. Make the Bruschetta Topping:
While the chicken is grilling, let’s prepare the bruschetta topping. In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, and balsamic vinegar. Mix everything together gently and season with a little salt and pepper to taste. This topping adds a fresh and zesty flavor!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once your chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Then, top each piece of grilled chicken with the bruschetta mixture.
6. Add the Finishing Touch:
Finally, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the top for an extra pop of flavor and a beautiful presentation!
7. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Grilled Bruschetta Chicken immediately, and enjoy this quick and satisfying meal with family or friends!
Can I Substitute Chicken Thighs for Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute and will provide a bit more moisture and flavor. Just make sure that the thighs are cooked to the same internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You may need to adjust the grilling time slightly, as thighs might take a minute or two longer to cook.
How Can I Make This Recipe If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
No problem! You can use dried basil instead, but use only about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, try using another fresh herb like parsley or cilantro for a different flavor profile. Just remember to chop them finely for the best results.
Can I Grill This Chicken Indoors?
If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop. Preheat the grill pan over medium-high heat and follow the same cooking times. Just make sure to use a little extra olive oil to prevent sticking!
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Bruschetta Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on a skillet, and add a splash of balsamic vinegar to refresh the flavors. The bruschetta topping can also be kept separate and added fresh when serving!
