Pic Credit: carriesexperimentalkitchen.com
Grilled Chicken Margherita is yummy that is made of grilled chicken, tomatoes, mozzarella and basil pesto. Here is a recipe that will help you make this delicious dish right in your own home since it is an Olive Garden copycat dish. Its ingredients are rich in colors and flavors and require less preparation than even a weeknight dinner or parties.
RECIPE INGREDIENTS
Ingredients
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 kg)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 small lemon)
- 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 6 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 6 tablespoons basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil for garnish
MEASURES & PRECAUTIONS
- Chicken Thickness: Make sure the chicken breasts are adequately pounded to uniform about 3/4 of an inch thick for proper cooking.
- Marinating Time: If brining, then the minimum time required available should be thirty minutes for the purpose of increasing its moisture holding capacity.
- Cooking Temperature: To test the readiness, use a meat thermometer each piece should reach a minimum cooking temperature of 74c 165F.
- Butter Caution: Be careful not to overcook your garlic when sautéing it because you just want the garlic to turn golden brown in color.
- Cheese Melting: Ensure that the cheese is well melted, when doing this should be done by having a cover on the skillet rather than the chicken getting burnt.
Grilled Chicken Margherita Olive Garden Recipe
INGREDIENTS NOTES
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Chicken: Boneless skinless chicken breasts are recommended for a leaner option; alternatively, use thighs for more flavor.
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Pesto: Fresh basil pesto made at home may be used; however, in the case of convenience store-bought pesto can be used and is equally good.
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Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add brightness; consider using heirloom varieties for a unique taste.
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Mozzarella: Sourcing fresh mozzarella gives you that creamy feel when melted over the chicken.
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Lemon Juice: Natural lemon juice which has been squeezed at that moment is preferable to commercial ones in a bottle.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
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Prepare the Chicken: Take each chicken breast and pat it dry with the help of a piece of paper towels. Brush both side with olive oil and sprinkle it with Italian seasoning, salt and pepper.
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Preheat Grill or Skillet: Preheat your grill or a cast iron skillet to medium high heat, so it is really hot to touch.
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Grill Chicken: Put the varied chicken onto the grill or skillet. It takes roughly 6–8 minutes on one side then the others, or until they are thoroughly cooked in the middle: 165°F (74°C). Afterward, take off from fire, let it to stand for sometimes.
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Make Lemon Garlic Sauce: To the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until you get the scent of garlic (approximately 1 minute). Add lemon juice and lemon zest; cook for one more minute.
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Assemble Chicken: Put the grilled chicken back to the skillet with lemon garlic sauce. Place a piece of mozzarella cheese at the top of each one. Place cover and cook on low flame until the cheese softens (2-3 minutes).
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Add Toppings: Take off the heat and spoon basil pesto and diced fresh tomatoes onto each chicken breast. Top with the fresh basil before you are set to serve the food.
RECIPE TIPS & VARIATIONS
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Serving Suggestions: Perfect served on the side of grills and barbecued dishes or eaten with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
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Flavor Enhancements: It is advisable to pour a little balsamic glaze over it before you are ready to serve your meal.
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Pasta Option: Top on cooked pasta mixed with olive oil and garlic for a more intensive meal.
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Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with grilled eggplant or grilled portobello mushrooms in case you prefer a non-meat diet.
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Storage Tips: The preserved food items can be kept in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 3 days at most.
EQUIPMENT
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Grill or cast-iron skillet
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Meat thermometer
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk
Note
SERVING TIPS 💡
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Serve immediately after cooking while the cheese is still warm and melty.
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Garnish plates with extra fresh basil leaves for presentation.
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Offer lemon wedges on the side for those who enjoy extra citrus flavor.
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Pair with crusty bread or garlic breadsticks to soak up any excess sauce.
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For family-style dining, serve on a large platter allowing guests to help themselves.
If you're looking for another flavorful meal, check out this easy Chicken Wing Dings Recipe.
