Published 5/17/2024 Top them with juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, creamy avocado, onions, and greens for an irresistibly fresh taste everyone will rave about. This time of year, all I want is to be outside, soaking up the sunshine and enjoying good food with friends and family. Grilling is always on the menu… and one of my absolute favorite things to grill is California Chicken! It’s simple, delish, and tastes like summer on a plate. All it takes to make this grilled California chicken is an easy marinade followed by a quick trip to the grill. While the chicken is cooking, prep your toppings and then assemble everything together for one amazing dish.
What’s In Grilled California Chicken
Balsamic vinegar: The base of our balsamic marinade, this adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the chicken. Dijon mustard: This ingredient helps to emulsify the marinade, making it stick to the chicken and infuse it with flavor. Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to the marinade, balancing out the tanginess of the vinegar. Italian seasoning: A classic seasoning blend for a pop of flavor in the marinade. Fresh lemon juice: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor to the marinade. Chicken breast: Make sure you get chicken breasts that are relatively the same size. Fresh mozzarella: We put a thick slice of mozzarella cheese on our chicken to give it a creamy, cheesy flavor. Roma tomatoes: Use ripe Roma tomatoes for the best flavor and texture. Avocado: Creamy and delicious, avocado is a must on grilled California chicken! Fresh basil leaves: To add a burst of freshness to the dish, we top it off with some fresh basil leaves. Red onion: Sliced thinly, red onion adds a slight crunch and a pop of color to the dish. Microgreens: These tiny, flavorful greens are optional but add a nice touch to the overall presentation and taste of the dish. They’re also highly nutritious!
Don’t have mozzarella?
Switch up the type of cheese and use another melty cheese like provolone or cheddar. You can also add some cooked bacon for a smoky twist.
Don’t have balsamic?
Use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar instead.
How to Store
For optimal freshness, store the chicken and its toppings separately. You can keep the grilled chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Store the toppings separately in small containers or bags and add them when ready to eat. To prevent sticking, make sure your grill is well-oiled before adding the chicken. You can also use a non-stick cooking spray on the chicken itself. You have a lot of control over how many fresh toppings go on your chicken breasts. If you’re trying to keep it on the healthier side, use a light hand with the toppings. But if you’re all about that loaded chicken life (same), go crazy and pile them high! Add the chicken to the skillet and cook the chicken for 8 minutes on the first side. Flip the chicken and place 2-3 slices of tomato on top, followed by mozzarella slices. Cook the chicken for an additional 6-8 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken is 165ºF. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Top the chicken with fresh avocado, basil, and micro greens. Serve immediately. If you’re planning on meal-prepping this dish, wait until you’re ready to serve before adding the avocado and micro greens. These ingredients are best when added fresh.
What to Serve with Grilled California Chicken
Take your summer BBQ to the top by serving this Grilled California Chicken with a variety of sides. Here are some options:
Grilled vegetables: Zucchini or bell peppers and onions all make great grilled side dishes. Summer salads: A fresh Caesar salad or a simple garden salad pairs well with the flavors of the chicken. Corn on the cob: Keep it classic with some corn on the cob, grilled to perfection. Pasta salad: Add some carbs to your meal with a tasty pasta salad on the side. Pineapple coleslaw: This tropical twist on a classic coleslaw recipe is the perfect addition to any summer meal.
