Grilled Bruschetta Chicken is a fresh and flavorful dish that turns a classic Italian appetizer into a satisfying main course. Juicy grilled chicken breasts are topped with a vibrant tomato and basil mixture, making it the perfect meal for warm evenings or anytime I want something healthy and delicious without much fuss.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s quick, colorful, and full of flavor. The chicken is simply seasoned and grilled to perfection, while the bruschetta topping adds brightness and a touch of acidity that complements the smoky meat. It’s one of my favorite ways to enjoy grilled chicken, and it feels fancy without being complicated.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese (optional)
For the Bruschetta Topping:
- 3 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- I start by marinating the chicken: in a small bowl, I mix olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. I rub this mixture onto the chicken breasts and let them sit while I prepare the topping.
- In another bowl, I combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. I season it with a little salt and pepper and let it sit so the flavors can meld.
- I preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, I grill the chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- If I’m using mozzarella, I place a slice on each chicken breast during the last couple of minutes on the grill so it melts.
- I remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Then I spoon the tomato mixture generously over each piece and serve right away.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 15–30 minutes (optional)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Sometimes I use provolone or a shredded Italian cheese blend if I’m out of mozzarella.
- For a fun twist, I serve this over arugula or baby spinach to make it a main-course salad.
- If I want extra flavor, I drizzle a little balsamic glaze on top before serving.
- I occasionally add diced red onion or chopped olives to the bruschetta topping for more bite.
- For a little heat, I sprinkle red pepper flakes over the chicken before grilling.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover chicken and bruschetta topping separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The chicken lasts up to 3 days and can be reheated in a skillet or microwave. The bruschetta topping is best enjoyed fresh, but it holds up for about a day in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs?
Yes, I sometimes use boneless, skinless thighs instead of breasts—they’re juicy and full of flavor. I just adjust the grill time since thighs may take a bit longer to cook.
What’s the best way to know when the chicken is done?
I use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature hits 165°F. That way, the chicken stays juicy and I know it’s safe to eat.
Can I cook this indoors if I don’t have a grill?
Absolutely. I use a grill pan or regular skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken just like I would on a grill.
Is mozzarella necessary?
Not at all. I love it for the melty, creamy touch it adds, but the chicken and bruschetta topping are delicious on their own too.
Can I prep this in advance?
Yes. I marinate the chicken and prep the bruschetta topping a few hours ahead. When it’s time to eat, I just grill the chicken and assemble everything.
Conclusion
Grilled Bruschetta Chicken is one of my favorite go-to meals when I want something light, flavorful, and easy. The simple grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the fresh tomato topping, and every bite feels like summer. Whether I’m making it for family or just for myself, it’s always a hit.
Grilled Bruschetta Chicken
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 15–30 minutes (optional)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Grilled Bruschetta Chicken is a light, healthy, and flavor-packed meal made with juicy grilled chicken breasts topped with a fresh tomato and basil bruschetta mixture. It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner that captures all the brightness of summer in every bite.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese (optional)
- For the Bruschetta Topping:
- 3 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture onto the chicken breasts. Let marinate for 15–30 minutes (optional).
- In another bowl, mix the diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
- Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill chicken 6–8 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- If using mozzarella, place a slice on each breast during the last 2 minutes of grilling.
- Let chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling, then top with the tomato mixture and serve.
Notes
- Use boneless thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness.
- Add red onion, olives, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the finished dish for a touch of sweetness.
- Serve over arugula for a salad-style presentation.
- Prep the bruschetta topping and marinate chicken ahead for a quick dinner.
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