This 30-minute Grilled Bruschetta Chicken is a tasty dish that combines juicy chicken with fresh tomatoes and basil. It’s quick and packed with flavor, perfect for busy nights!
What’s better than dinner that’s ready in half an hour, right? I love serving it with some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious juice. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the perfect choice for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness. They’re also generally more forgiving when grilling.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the seasonings stick to the chicken. If you’re out, you can switch to avocado oil or even melted butter for a slightly different taste.
Italian Seasoning: This blend is great for adding a burst of flavor. If you don’t have it on hand, mix equal parts of dried oregano, basil, and thyme as a substitute. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Fresh Tomatoes: I recommend using ripe, juicy tomatoes for the bruschetta topping. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, canned diced tomatoes can work in a pinch, though the flavor will be different. Just drain them well!
Basil: Fresh basil gives a bright flavor. If you can’t find it, consider using a teaspoon of dried basil instead, but fresh is always best for this dish.
How Do You Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it every time! The key here is to keep an eye on the heat and timing.
- Start by preheating your grill to medium-high. This helps get a good sear on the chicken.
- Rub the chicken with oil and seasonings. Letting it sit for a few minutes helps flavors absorb.
- Grill each side for 6-7 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps it juicy!
How to Make 30-Minute Grilled Bruschetta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 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, for a total of around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy option for a tasty dinner that is sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get the Grill Ready:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This is important to ensure your chicken cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks.
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Take this mixture and rub it all over the chicken breasts until they are well coated. This will add a wonderful flavor to your chicken!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy.
4. Prepare the Bruschetta Topping:
While the chicken is resting, let’s make the bruschetta topping! In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together well and set it aside to let the flavors meld.
5. Serve Up Your Dish:
Time to plate! Arrange the grilled chicken breasts on a platter and generously top each piece with the fresh bruschetta mixture. It looks colorful and tastes amazing!
6. Add a Final Touch:
If you like, you can drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top for that extra burst of flavor and pretty presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious grilled bruschetta chicken!
## FAQ for 30-Minute Grilled Bruschetta Chicken
Can I Substitute Chicken Breasts with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even grilled shrimp for a seafood twist. Just adjust the cooking time: shrimp will only need about 3-4 minutes per side until they’re opaque.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
This recipe is naturally dairy-free as it doesn’t include any dairy ingredients! Just make sure any balsamic glaze you use is also dairy-free, or omit it if you’re unsure.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist, and top with fresh bruschetta for a quick relive!
Can I Prepare the Bruschetta Topping in Advance?
Yes, you can make the bruschetta topping in advance! Just prepare it up to a day before and keep it covered in the fridge. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. Give it a good stir before serving!
