1. Prepare the Marinade:
- Mix Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
2. Prepare the Grill:
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C). If using a gas grill, allow it to heat up for about 10-15 minutes. For a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly distributed and covered with a light layer of ash.
3. Grill the Chicken:
- Grill Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Place the chicken on the grill. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The chicken should have nice grill marks and be juicy.
- Rest Chicken: Transfer the grilled chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
4. Prepare the Topping:
- Mix Topping: In a medium bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to mix.
5. Assemble and Serve:
- Top Chicken: Slice the grilled chicken breasts and place them on a serving platter. Spoon the tomato and mozzarella mixture over the chicken.
- Drizzle: If desired, drizzle with balsamic glaze for added sweetness and tang.
- Garnish: Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, if desired.
- Serve: Serve immediately while the chicken is warm and the topping is fresh. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken Margherita:
- Marinate Well: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to infuse it with flavor and ensure it stays moist while grilling.
- Monitor Grill Temperature: Keep an eye on the grill temperature to prevent burning the chicken. Medium-high heat is ideal for achieving a nice char without drying out the meat.
- Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest before slicing to retain its juices and maintain tenderness.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for the best flavor and texture.
Grilled Chicken Margherita is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal with the classic tastes of a Margherita pizza. With juicy grilled chicken topped with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for its ease and delicious results. Enjoy this fresh and vibrant dish with your loved ones!