Grilled Chicken Margherita
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
5 mins
-
Cook Time
25 mins
-
Servings
4
-
Calories
419 kcal
-
Course
Main Course
-
Cuisine
Italian
Grilled Chicken Margherita
Description
Grilled Chicken Margherita presents thinly pounded chicken breasts seared in olive oil, seasoned simply with salt and pepper. Once partially cooked, the chicken is topped with basil pesto and fresh mozzarella slices that melt under a lid, enriching the texture and flavor. The addition of fresh heirloom tomatoes as a topping provides juicy brightness. A lemon garlic butter drizzle finishes the dish, adding a hint of acidity and richness.
The chicken is cooked over medium-high heat in a skillet, allowing a golden sear and tender interior. The melting mozzarella creates a luscious topping that melds with the herbal pesto. The final topping of tomatoes and basil adds freshness that contrasts well with the warm, rich main elements.
This dish can be served immediately as a hearty dinner option, pairing well with simple sides like a green salad or crusty bread. The use of fresh ingredients and straightforward preparation brings out distinct textures and flavors characteristic of margherita style.
Use a meat thermometer or timing guidelines to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption. Covering the pan while melting the cheese helps achieve a better melt without overcooking the chicken.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breast pounded thin, boneless, skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4-6 teaspoons basil pesto Classico brand
- 4 ounces mozzarella cheese sliced, fresh
- heirloom tomatoes fresh
For the lemon garlic drizzle:
- 2 tablespoons butter melted, salted
- 1 teaspoon garlic minced
- lemon juice of 1
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat.
- Add the chicken, then sprinkle the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken for about 4 minutes on one side, then flip and cook 3 minutes on the other side. (The exact timing will depend on how thick the chicken breasts are.)
- After cooking 3 minutes, top the chicken with the pesto, spreading to cover as much as you can of the top.
- Then place the fresh mozzarella on top so it can start melting while the chicken gets to internal temperature of 165ºF. This will take an additional 3-5 minutes. Put a lid on the pan if needed to promote the cheese melting.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic and juice of 1 lemon.
- Drizzle the lemon sauce over the chicken.
- To serve, top the chicken with fresh tomato and garnish with fresh basil.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use a thermometer to check the chicken is cooked to 165°F for safety and juiciness.
- Cover the skillet when melting mozzarella to help cheese soften evenly without drying out chicken.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm melted cheese and fresh tomato topping.
- Calorie counts are approximate and depend on ingredient brands; consult a nutrition calculator for accuracy.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 419 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 419kcal | 21% |
| Carbohydrates | 3g | 1% |
| Protein | 43g | 86% |
| Fat | 25g | 38% |
| Saturated Fat | 10g | 50% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 10g | 50% |
| Trans Fat | 0.3g | 15% |
| Cholesterol | 147mg | 49% |
| Sodium | 762mg | 32% |
| Potassium | 740mg | 16% |
| Fiber | 0.4g | 2% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 702IU | 14% |
| Vitamin C | 11mg | 12% |
| Calcium | 168mg | 17% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
You'll Also Love
