Save A vibrant and fresh salad featuring juicy grilled chicken, a zesty tomato-basil topping, and crisp mixed greens—perfect for a light lunch or summery dinner.
Save This Italian-American inspired dish brings the classic flavors of a tomato bruschetta to a healthy, protein-packed main course that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken: 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
- For the Bruschetta Topping: 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced, 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
- For the Salad: 6 cups mixed salad greens, 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese (optional), Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the Grill
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Step 2: Season the Chicken
- Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Step 3: Grill the Chicken
- Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat, rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- Step 4: Prepare Bruschetta
- While the chicken grills, combine tomatoes, red onion, basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Step 5: Base Layer
- Arrange mixed salad greens on a large platter or individual plates.
- Step 6: Combine
- Lay sliced chicken over the greens and spoon the bruschetta topping generously over the top. Sprinkle with shaved Parmesan.
- Step 7: Finish
- Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours before grilling. Make sure your tomatoes are at room temperature to ensure the best flavor for the bruschetta topping.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute mozzarella pearls or crumbled feta for the Parmesan if desired. You can also swap the mixed greens for chopped romaine or arugula to change the texture.
Serviervorschläge
Pair this light and zesty salad with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. It also goes well with a side of crusty gluten-free bread to soak up the balsamic juices.
Save This Bruschetta Chicken Salad is a fantastic way to enjoy a light yet filling meal that celebrates the bright, bold colors of fresh summer produce.
Your Questions Answered
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Resting for 5 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Prepare the tomato-basil topping up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate. Grill the chicken fresh, then assemble just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
- → What if I don't have a grill?
Use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil the chicken in your oven at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
- → Is this gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Simply verify that your Italian herbs and all other ingredients are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the fresh tomato and basil flavors beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- → Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese?
Absolutely. Mozzarella pearls, crumbled feta, or fresh goat cheese all work wonderfully and offer different flavor profiles to customize your dish.