This 30-minute grilled bruschetta chicken is a tasty and quick meal! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
It’s like having a summer picnic on your plate, and the best part? You can whip it up in no time! I love serving it with a side salad for extra crunch. 🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for quick grilling. If you want to mix it up, try using chicken thighs for more flavor or even turkey cutlets as a lean alternative.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a lovely richness. If you’re out, avocado oil or melted coconut oil can swap in without losing much taste.
Italian Seasoning: This blend is essential for flavor. You can substitute it with a mix of dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, and basil if you have those on hand.
Roma Tomatoes: Juicy Roma tomatoes are great for bruschetta. However, if they’re not available, any ripe tomatoes will work, like vine-ripened or heirloom varieties.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key for that bright flavor. No basil? Try substituting with fresh parsley or arugula, but the flavor will be different.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a tangy sweetness. If you don’t have it, red wine vinegar with a bit of sugar can mimic the taste.
How Can I Grill Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll get it right. Here are some steps to help you achieve juicy, flavorful chicken:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a good sear, locking in juices.
- Brushing the chicken with the oil and seasoning mix helps prevent sticking and adds flavor.
- Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after grilling. This helps retain moisture, keeping 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
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bruschetta Topping:
- 2 cups Roma tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to grill the chicken, making it a quick and delicious meal ready in just 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. It’s important to get it nice and hot so that the chicken cooks evenly and gets those delicious grill marks!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Take your chicken breasts and brush this tasty mixture all over both sides. This will give the chicken lots of flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Once your grill is hot, carefully place the chicken breasts on it. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to be fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s juicy and safe to eat.
4. Make the Bruschetta Topping:
While the chicken is grilling, it’s time to whip up the bruschetta topping! In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, and balsamic vinegar. Add a pinch of salt and toss everything together until well combined.
5. Let the Chicken Rest:
Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, remove it from the heat. Let it rest for a couple of minutes—this helps keep it juicy!
6. Assemble and Serve:
Top each grilled chicken breast with a generous spoonful of the bruschetta mixture. If you like, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the top for extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious grilled bruschetta chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need to thaw it completely before grilling! The best way to thaw chicken is in the fridge overnight, or you can place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quick thaw. Pat dry after thawing to ensure a good sear on the grill.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
No problem! You can substitute dried basil, just use about 1 teaspoon instead of the 1/4 cup of fresh. While fresh herbs provide a vibrant flavor, dried herbs still add a nice aroma and taste!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes until warmed through. You can also enjoy the bruschetta topping cold or at room temperature!
Can I Make the Bruschetta Topping Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bruschetta topping in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep it in a sealed container to maintain freshness. This way, you can quickly top your grilled chicken when ready to serve!
