This tasty grilled bruschetta chicken is perfect for a quick meal! Juicy chicken breast topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze makes for a lovely dish.
You can whip this up in just 30 minutes—talk about a time saver! I like to serve it with a side salad for an easy dinner that feels fancy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly. If you want an alternative, try using chicken thighs for a juicier option. They may require a bit more cooking time.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and flavor. You can substitute with vegetable oil if you’re out of olive oil, but I love the richness that olive oil brings to the dish.
Italian Seasoning: A convenient blend for flavor. If you don’t have it, mix dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary instead to create a similar taste.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are key for that bruschetta topping. If they’re not in season, canned diced tomatoes can work, but try to drain them well. Cherry tomatoes also make a sweet alternative.
Basil: Fresh basil gives a lovely aroma. If unavailable, use dried basil but reduce the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated and strong.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few easy steps, you’ll nail it every time! First, ensuring the grill is preheated helps to avoid sticking. Here’s how you can do it right:
- Prep the chicken by pounding it to an even thickness for more uniform cooking.
- Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling so it cooks evenly.
- Keep an eye on the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. You’re aiming for 165°F (75°C).
Letting the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking is also important. This keeps it juicy and prevents it from drying out when you slice into it!
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 large tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes getting everything ready and then about 20 minutes grilling the chicken and making the bruschetta topping. It’s quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This helps the chicken cook perfectly and gives it a nice char!
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Brush this flavorful mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. This step adds lots of tasty flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to cook through until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This will make it juicy and safe to eat!
4. Prepare the Bruschetta Topping:
While the chicken is grilling, grab a medium bowl and combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Toss everything together gently, making sure the flavors meld nicely. This topping is fresh and vibrant!
5. Rest the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done grilling, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy and tender.
6. Top and Serve:
After resting, place each grilled chicken breast on a plate and top it generously with the tomato-basil bruschetta. If you like, you can drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top for an extra touch of flavor. Serve it up and enjoy your delicious grilled bruschetta chicken!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use bone-in chicken breasts or even chicken thighs. Just adjust the grilling time; bone-in pieces may take longer, around 8-10 minutes per side, until they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil instead—just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated. Use about one-third the amount (so around 1 tablespoon dried basil) compared to fresh, but make sure to mix it into the olive oil seasoning for a burst of flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Bruschetta Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, try using the oven or stovetop for best results, as microwaving may make the chicken tough. Cover it with foil to retain moisture while reheating.
Can I Make the Bruschetta Topping Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the bruschetta topping ahead! Just mix the tomatoes, basil, and balsamic vinegar, then store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Give it a stir before serving to refresh the flavors!
