This tasty grilled bruschetta chicken is perfect for busy days! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Yum!
In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a colorful meal that’s as good to look at as it is to eat. I love serving it with a side of garlic bread to scoop up those delicious toppings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
Olive Oil: Olive oil gives great taste and helps with grilling. If you’re out of olive oil, feel free to use vegetable or canola oil, but I love the flavor olive oil brings.
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are key here. If tomatoes aren’t in season, you can use canned diced tomatoes. Opt for the ones packed in juice for better flavor.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely aroma. If you don’t have it, use dried basil, but reduce the amount to about one teaspoon, as dried is more concentrated.
Balsamic Glaze: While optional, balsamic glaze adds a nice touch. A drizzle of regular balsamic vinegar can work too, just use less since it’s more liquid.
How Can I Grill Chicken Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but don’t worry! Here are some tips to keep it juicy:
- **Preheat the Grill:** Make sure your grill is hot before putting the chicken on. This helps sear it quickly.
- **Cook It Right:** Aim for 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C), so it’s cooked through but not dry.
- **Let It Rest:** After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps it moist.
With these steps, you’ll have tender and flavorful grilled chicken every time! Enjoy your meal.
Delicious 30-Minute Grilled Bruschetta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bruschetta Topping:
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 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 from start to finish! You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients, and then just 20 minutes grilling and assembling. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use a brush or your hands to coat both sides of the chicken breasts with this flavorful mixture.
2. Grill the Chicken:
Now, it’s time to grill! Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and for it to no longer be pink inside. Once cooked, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy.
3. Make the Bruschetta Topping:
While your chicken is grilling away, prepare the bruschetta topping. In a separate medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Give it a good mix to combine all the ingredients and let those flavors meld together!
4. Assemble:
Once the chicken is done resting, it’s time to put it all together. Top each grilled chicken breast with a generous amount of the bruschetta mixture. For an extra touch, drizzle some balsamic glaze on top if you like a hint of sweetness.
5. Serve:
Now, it’s time to dig in! Serve your delicious bruschetta chicken hot and enjoy it while it’s fresh. If you want, you can garnish with some extra basil leaves for a lovely presentation. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just ensure the chicken is completely thawed before marinating and grilling. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or place it in a sealed plastic bag into cold water for a quicker option. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure it gets a nice grill mark.
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as a substitute. To mimic the sweetness of balsamic, consider adding a teaspoon of honey or sugar to the vinegar. This works well in the bruschetta topping!
How Should I Store Leftover Bruschetta Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the bruschetta topping separate from the chicken until you’re ready to enjoy it again. To reheat, simply warm the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stove, and add fresh bruschetta topping just before serving.
Can I Make the Bruschetta Topping Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bruschetta topping a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure all the flavors are combined well. However, for the freshest taste, I recommend serving it within a day.
