How This Grilled Chicken Margherita Became Our Favorite Summer Dinner
The first time I smelled grilled chicken mingling with fresh basil and melting cheese, I knew it would become a family favorite. The kids were playing in the yard, my husband was tending to the grill, and I was in the kitchen slicing sun-warmed tomatoes from our garden. This Grilled Chicken Margherita brings me right back to those peaceful summer nights when dinner was simple, fresh, and full of love.
Inspired by the classic Margherita flavors—ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil—this dish is light, wholesome, and perfect for summer gatherings or even a weeknight treat when you want something a little special without too much fuss.
Let’s fire up that grill and bring a bit of sunshine to the table.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken Margherita
This easy grilled chicken recipe is the perfect mix of simple and special. With just a handful of fresh ingredients—like mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil—it turns plain chicken into something you’d be proud to serve at a summer gathering or enjoy on a quiet weeknight.
It’s light, healthy, and full of flavor. The combination of juicy grilled chicken, creamy mozzarella, and sweet tomatoes makes it a summer dinner that always feels a little extra—without the extra work.
And the best part? You can prep it ahead, toss it on the grill, and have a wholesome meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Margherita
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
¼ cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
This recipe uses simple pantry staples, but feel free to go garden-fresh when you can—it really makes a difference with the tomatoes and basil.
Ingredient Notes
Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless work best here. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat—they stay extra juicy on the grill.
Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella slices give that lovely melt and creamy texture. If you’re in a pinch, shredded mozzarella works too.
Cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add a burst of freshness. You can substitute with diced Roma or heirloom tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand.
Basil pesto: Store-bought is quick and easy, but homemade pesto will add that extra garden-fresh touch if you have basil growing nearby.
Balsamic vinegar: Adds a little tang to balance the richness. If you love a stronger glaze, a balsamic reduction drizzled on top is a beautiful finish.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Margherita
Start with a simple marinade
In a medium bowl, stir together the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in the bowl and turn them until they’re coated on all sides. I usually let them sit out on the counter while I warm up the grill—it gives them just enough time to soak in that flavor.
Get the grill going
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F if you’re checking. If you’re using a grill pan inside, that works just fine too—just be sure it’s hot enough to give you those nice golden grill marks.
Grill the chicken
Lay the chicken on the grill and close the lid. Let it cook for 5 to 6 minutes without moving it—this helps it get that beautiful sear. Flip the chicken and cook for another few minutes, then add a slice of fresh mozzarella to each piece. Close the lid again just long enough for the cheese to melt into something creamy and dreamy.
Make the tomato topping
While the chicken finishes up, toss the cherry tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and fresh basil in a small bowl. Add a pinch of salt and give it a gentle stir. Letting it sit for a few minutes brings out all that fresh, juicy flavor.
Bring it all together
Once the chicken is cooked through (you’re looking for 165°F in the thickest part), take it off the grill. Spoon a little pesto over each piece, then top it with that beautiful tomato mixture. I like to scatter a few extra basil leaves over the top before serving—it’s the little things.
Tips for the Best Grilled Chicken Margherita
Don’t skip the marinade time.
Even 15–20 minutes makes a big difference in flavor. The olive oil and seasoning help keep the chicken juicy on the grill.
Use a meat thermometer.
Chicken can go from perfect to dry in a flash. I always keep a little digital thermometer nearby—165°F is your sweet spot.
Let the chicken rest.
Once it’s off the grill, give it a few minutes to rest. That way, the juices settle and each bite stays tender.
Go fresh when you can.
Fresh basil, vine-ripened tomatoes, and a good mozzarella really shine in this recipe. It’s simple food, so every ingredient counts.
Make it your own.
Try swapping the cherry tomatoes for sun-dried ones, or use arugula instead of basil for a peppery twist. This recipe is a great base for your own touches.
What to Serve with Grilled Chicken Margherita
This dish pairs beautifully with all sorts of fresh and cozy sides. Since it’s light and summery, I like to keep things simple and seasonal. Here are a few favorites from my kitchen:
Roasted baby potatoes with garlic and herbs
Grilled corn on the cob with a little lemon butter
Creamy cucumber salad—cool, crisp, and refreshing
Lemon rice or herbed couscous for something a little heartier
A big garden salad with homemade vinaigrette
And if you’re in the mood to try another easy chicken dinner, these Chicken and Feta Burgers are always a hit—juicy, flavorful, and ready in no time.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, they warm up beautifully the next day.
Storing:
Let the chicken cool, then tuck it into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. I like to keep the tomato topping separate so everything stays bright and fresh. It’ll be good for up to 3 days—perfect for an easy lunch or second-round dinner.
Reheating:
To keep it from drying out, warm the chicken gently in a covered skillet on low heat, or in the oven at 300°F until just heated through. I like to add a little spoonful of fresh pesto on top right before serving—it brings all the flavor back to life.
Freezing:
You can absolutely freeze the grilled chicken (just skip the toppings). Wrap each piece snugly and store in a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat just like above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Grilled Chicken Margherita?
Grilled Chicken Margherita is a simple and flavorful dish inspired by the classic Margherita pizza. It features grilled chicken breasts topped with melted mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of pesto. It’s light, fresh, and perfect for warm-weather meals.
How many calories are in the Grilled Chicken Margherita from Olive Garden?
According to Olive Garden’s nutrition info, their Grilled Chicken Margherita has about 550 calories per serving. Our homemade version may vary depending on the ingredients you use—but it’s easy to keep it lighter by using fresh, wholesome toppings and just the right amount of cheese and pesto.
What is Margarita Chicken?
Margarita Chicken often refers to a dish made with lime juice and tequila—but this Margherita Chicken is a different story altogether. Named after the classic Margherita pizza, it’s all about tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil—no alcohol involved, just fresh Italian-inspired flavors.
Is the Grilled Chicken Margherita from Olive Garden keto-friendly?
The Olive Garden version is considered low-carb and can fit into a keto lifestyle, especially if you skip the side of potatoes or breadsticks. Our homemade version is also easy to adapt for keto—just use a low-carb pesto and enjoy it with a side of roasted veggies or a fresh salad.
From My Kitchen to Yours
This Grilled Chicken Margherita has become one of those go-to meals I keep coming back to—especially when the sun’s out and the grill’s hot and the scent of basil starts drifting through the backyard. It’s fresh, flavorful, and easy enough to pull together even on a busy evening. Whether you’re serving it up for family dinner or sharing it with friends out on the patio, I hope it brings a little extra joy to your table.
If you’re looking for tips on grilling chicken to perfection, this guide from Once Upon a Chef offers excellent advice on achieving juicy, flavorful results.
