Bruschetta Chicken Salad

Bruschetta Chicken Salad is a vibrant and fresh dish featuring juicy grilled chicken, a zesty tomato-basil topping, and crisp mixed greens. It is the perfect choice for anyone seeking a light lunch or a summery dinner that feels like a trip to the Italian countryside.

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This Italian-American inspired meal combines the warmth of grilled proteins with the cooling, acidic pop of a fresh tomato-basil salsa. Whether you are hosting a garden party or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this recipe delivers on both presentation and flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced (about 4 medium tomatoes)
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 6 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, arugula, or spring mix)
• 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

Step 2

Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 3

Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Remove from heat, rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

Step 4

While the chicken grills, combine tomatoes, red onion, basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Toss gently and let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 5

Arrange salad greens on a large platter or individual plates. Lay sliced chicken over the greens.

Step 6

Spoon the bruschetta topping generously over the chicken. Sprinkle with shaved Parmesan, if using.

Step 7

Serve immediately, with lemon wedges on the side.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Allowing the bruschetta topping to sit for 10 minutes while the chicken rests is essential for the juices to meld. For a more intense flavor profile, you can marinate the chicken in the olive oil and herb mixture for up to 2 hours before grilling.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly versatile; you can substitute mozzarella pearls or crumbled feta for the shaved Parmesan cheese if desired. You can also experiment with different types of salad greens such as romaine, arugula, or a spring mix to change the texture.

Serviervorschläge

Serve the salad immediately after assembly to maintain the crispness of the greens. For a complete dining experience, pair this dish with a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Don't forget the lemon wedges to add a final bright citrus note.

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Each serving of this hearty salad contains 320 calories and 17g of fat, making it a satisfying yet balanced meal. Enjoy the fresh, wholesome ingredients of this Italian-American classic!

Questions & Answers

→ How do I keep the chicken moist while grilling?

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before grilling, and avoid cooking over extremely high heat. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking before slicing to retain juices.

→ Can I prepare the bruschetta topping ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tomato-basil mixture up to 4 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually meld beautifully. Just drain any excess liquid before serving to prevent the greens from becoming soggy.

→ What's the best way to slice the grilled chicken?

Use a sharp knife and slice the chicken against the grain into thin strips. This ensures tender, bite-sized pieces that are easy to eat and absorb the flavors of the bruschetta topping beautifully.

→ Can I use a stovetop instead of a grill?

Absolutely. Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for the same time as you would on a grill. You may not get grill marks, but the chicken will be equally flavorful and juicy.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can grill the chicken and prepare the topping 1-2 days ahead. Store separately in airtight containers. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp. The components stay fresh and easy to combine.

→ What wines pair well with this dish?

Crisp white wines work best. Try a Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Vermentino. These wines complement the fresh basil, tomato, and balsamic flavors while cutting through the richness of the olive oil and chicken beautifully.