This 30-minute Grilled Bruschetta Chicken is a flavorful dish that brings together juicy chicken and fresh tomato topping. It’s quick, easy, and sure to please everyone!
With the bright flavors from the tomatoes and basil, this meal feels fancy without all the fuss. I love serving it with a side salad for a light dinner—delicious and simple!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for even cooking. If you’re looking for a healthier option or a different flavor, try using chicken thighs, which are juicier.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and flavor. If you need a substitute, avocado oil works well due to its high smoke point. I love extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste, but any olive oil will do.
Italian Seasoning: This is a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme. If you don’t have it, mix equal parts of dried basil and oregano with a little rosemary or thyme. Fresh herbs can be used as well for a fresher taste!
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are best for bruschetta. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can be a good alternative—just drain them well. I often mix in some cherry tomatoes for extra sweetness.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a nice herby flavor. If you can’t find it, consider using parsley or dried basil, though fresh is always ideal for this recipe.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken to perfection can be tricky, but it’s all about the right temperature and timing. First, preheat your grill to medium-high. Keeping the proper temperature helps seal in juices. Here’s how to do it:
- Brush the seasoning mixture generously over the chicken to keep it moist.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps it tender.
These steps will give you juicy, flavorful chicken every time!
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 delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. So, in just 30 minutes, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful and healthy grilled bruschetta chicken dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your chicken gets that perfect grilled flavor and nice sear.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a brush or your hands to coat both sides of each chicken breast with this tasty mixture. This will add lots of flavor while they cook!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and they look beautifully grilled.
4. Make the Bruschetta Topping:
While the chicken is grilling, get started on the bruschetta topping. In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together well so the flavors combine beautifully.
5. Rest the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy and flavorful.
6. Assemble and Serve:
After resting, top each grilled chicken breast with a generous amount of the bruschetta mixture. If you want to make it even more special, drizzle some balsamic glaze on top. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Grilled Bruschetta Chicken!
Can I Use Thawed Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure the chicken is completely thawed before grilling. Thaw it in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. If you’re short on time, you can place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 1-2 hours. Pat it dry before applying the seasoning to ensure a good sear on the grill!
What Happens If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
No worries! You can substitute fresh basil with 1 teaspoon of dried basil, though the flavor will be a bit different. If using dried herbs, mix them into the bruschetta topping right after the tomatoes to allow the flavors to meld together. You can also experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano for a unique twist!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the bruschetta topping fresh, consider storing it separately. Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop, and top it with fresh bruschetta before serving for the best flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven Instead of Grilling?
Definitely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This method still yields juicy chicken, and you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes if you want that grilled finish!
