Grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden copycat recipes have become a staple in my kitchen—not just because they’re packed with fresh, melty, lemony Italian flavor, but because they reflect exactly why I started Melting Kitchen in the first place. During those overwhelming seasons of life—between snack breaks, school runs, and that never-ending “what’s for dinner?” panic—I found myself needing recipes that were comforting, realistic, and actually doable.
I wasn’t interested in fancy ingredients or fussy techniques. I just wanted approachable meals that felt like a win on busy weeknights. And when I couldn’t quite find a corner of the internet that fit that need, I built one. That’s how Melting Kitchen came to be: a warm, no-judgment zone where home cooks like you and me could find recipes that work.
This grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden-inspired recipe is one of those wins. It’s simple, full of bold flavor, and flexible enough to make your own. Whether you use homemade basil pesto or your favorite store brand, it’s all about building those classic Italian layers—mozzarella, tomatoes, garlic, lemon butter sauce—on a juicy grilled chicken breast.
Check out our Cottage Cheese Banana Pancakes if you’re looking for another easy, feel-good meal you’ll actually want to cook.
Let’s dive into what makes this copycat dish so delicious and why you’ll be making it on repeat.
Print
Grilled Chicken Margherita Olive Garden Copycat (Better Than the Original!)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: SERVINGS 4
Description
This grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden copycat is a quick and flavorful dinner made with juicy grilled chicken breasts, fresh mozzarella, zesty lemon butter sauce, basil pesto, and ripe cherry tomatoes. It’s a restaurant-style Italian dish you can make at home in just 30 minutes—perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with bold, fresh flavors.
Ingredients
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced horizontally to create cutlets (See Notes)
- 2 tablespoons 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, (1 small lemon)
- 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed (from zested lemon)
- 6 slices fresh mozzarella
- 6 tablespoons basil pesto, homemade or store bought
- 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes, (we use a combination of halved grape tomatoes and quartered Campari tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Remove chicken breasts from packaging and use a paper towel to pat them dry. Rub all sides with olive oil, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat grill to medium high heat. Cook prepared chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until internal temperature reaches 162°F. (Time will vary depending on thickness of chicken breast. If some chicken pieces are larger than others, remove chicken as it is done cooking and set aside while larger/thicker pieces finish cooking.)
- In a cast iron skillet, heat butter over medium heat until melted. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until very fragrant.
- Add lemon juice and lemon zest to the skillet, whisking to combine; simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Place the grilled chicken into the pan, flipping it once to coat both sides in the lemon butter sauce.
- Top each piece of chicken with 1-2 slices of fresh mozzarella. Cover the pan and simmer on low for another minute or two, until cheese has melted. *See Notes
- Spoon a tablespoon of pesto (more or less to your liking) over each piece of chicken and top with fresh tomatoes and chopped basil. Serve immediately.
Notes
If you’d like extra sauce for your grilled chicken Margherita Olive Garden dish, sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of flour right after toasting the garlic. Then, whisk in ½ cup of water along with the lemon zest and juice. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Using thin-sliced chicken breasts—also known as chicken cutlets—works especially well for grilled chicken Margherita. Cutlets grill quickly and evenly thanks to their uniform thickness, making them ideal for this Olive Garden-inspired recipe.
Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can dry out easily. A digital instant-read thermometer is your best friend here. The chicken is done when the thickest part reaches 162°F. Let it rest for 10 minutes, during which the internal temperature will naturally rise to 165°F, ensuring it’s juicy, tender, and perfectly safe to enjoy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grill, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 586cal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1202mg
- Fat: 41g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 47g
- Cholesterol: 174mg
Table of Contents
What Is Grilled Chicken Margherita Olive Garden Style?
The Original Olive Garden Inspiration
If you’ve ever dined at Olive Garden, you’ve likely seen grilled chicken margherita on the menu—a vibrant, flavorful entree featuring seasoned grilled chicken topped with melty mozzarella, pesto, and ripe tomatoes. It’s the restaurant’s nod to the classic Italian margherita flavors, built around simplicity and freshness. But here’s the good news: this isn’t a dish you need to leave the house for.
In fact, recreating this dish at home has its perks. You control the ingredients, the portion sizes, and can even put your own twist on it. Whether you’re using store-bought pesto or going full DIY, this dish delivers serious flavor with surprisingly little effort.
How It Differs From Margarita Chicken or Caprese Chicken
Don’t let the name confuse you—chicken margherita is not the same as margarita chicken, which typically features lime juice and tequila flavors. This is all about Italian classics: mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes (think margherita pizza vibes, but without the crust).
It also stands apart from caprese chicken, although they’re definitely in the same family. Caprese chicken is often baked and served cold or at room temperature, while Olive Garden’s grilled chicken margherita is served hot off the grill, smothered in a lemon butter sauce, and made even more indulgent with layers of melty cheese and pesto.
Why You’ll Love This Copycat Grilled Chicken Margherita Recipe
Fresh Italian Flavors with Homemade Appeal
There’s something deeply satisfying about biting into a juicy grilled chicken breast topped with creamy mozzarella, tangy tomatoes, fragrant pesto, and a zesty lemon butter sauce. This grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden copycat recipe captures all that flavor in one skillet—but with fewer calories, more control, and no reservations needed.
The beauty lies in the freshness. You’re not working with frozen ingredients or heavy cream-based sauces. Instead, you’re layering vibrant ingredients like basil, garlic, lemon zest, and ripe cherry tomatoes for a light yet indulgent flavor that feels like summer in every bite.
And let’s be real—when you’re feeding your family or even meal-prepping for yourself, nothing beats a dish that feels both comfort-food worthy and health-conscious.
Budget-Friendly and Healthier Than Dining Out
Eating out adds up. Between tipping, drinks, and add-ons, a single dish like the original Olive Garden grilled chicken margherita can cost nearly $20—and that’s before taxes. This homemade version costs a fraction of that and takes just 30 minutes start to finish.
Even better? You control the macros. Want it keto? Skip the tomatoes or pair it with low-carb zoodles. Need it extra cheesy? Add another slice of mozzarella. Prefer homemade pesto with no added oils? Go for it. This recipe flexes with your needs.
Learn more about Blueberry Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bake for another nutritious, affordable meal idea.
Ingredients Breakdown and Easy Substitutions
Protein Picks: Chicken Breasts, Cutlets, or Thighs
The star of this grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden recipe is, of course, the chicken. Traditionally, boneless skinless chicken breasts are used, but that doesn’t mean you can’t experiment. If you want faster cook time and more even grilling, try using chicken cutlets. They’re thinner, easier to manage on the grill, and soak up flavor beautifully.
Prefer dark meat? Boneless chicken thighs are a great option too. Just make sure they aren’t too thick or they might cook unevenly. No matter which cut you use, your goal is juicy, well-seasoned chicken that holds up under all that cheesy, saucy goodness.
Pat your chicken dry with a paper towel, rub it with olive oil, and season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. These small prep steps build big flavor, especially when grilled to a golden sear.
Cheese, Tomatoes, Herbs, and the Magic of Pesto
A big part of why grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden meals are so memorable is the topping. We’re layering mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, basil, and pesto for that signature Italian color and taste.
Fresh mozzarella slices work best here. They melt beautifully and create that gooey, stretchy texture everyone loves. If you’re using shredded mozzarella, that works too, but be sure to cover the pan to help it melt thoroughly.
For tomatoes, you can go with cherry or grape varieties. Slice them in half or quarters and let their juices mix with the lemon butter sauce for a naturally sweet acidity. If all you have on hand are Roma or Campari tomatoes, chop them into chunks and sprinkle them over the cheese just before serving.
Now, the pesto. This is your flavor booster. You can use a good-quality store-bought pesto, but if you have five minutes, homemade basil pesto takes things to the next level. It’s fresh, nutty, garlicky, and ties the whole dish together.
Don’t miss our Cottage Cheese Chocolate Mousse if you’re in the mood for a decadent finish after dinner.
Want to switch it up? Try using provolone or fontina instead of mozzarella for a sharper cheese flavor. You can even add a sprinkle of grated parmesan before serving for extra richness.
Looking for inspiration? Try Cottage Cheese Egg Bites for another protein-packed meal that’s quick and flexible like this grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden style recipe.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Margherita (Step-by-Step)
Prepping and Seasoning the Chicken Perfectly
Grilled chicken Margherita, Olive Garden style, starts with a simple prep: slice the chicken breasts into thin cutlets. This helps them grill evenly and stay deliciously tender.
Pat the chicken dry using a paper towel. Then, rub each piece with olive oil and sprinkle both sides generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This basic but essential step ensures that each bite of your grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden copycat has flavor built in from the beginning.
Set your grill or grill pan to medium-high and let it preheat before adding the chicken. Lay the seasoned chicken onto the hot surface and grill for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. You’re aiming for 162°F on the grill since the internal temperature will rise to the safe 165°F while the chicken rests.
Remove each piece as it finishes cooking, especially if some are thinner and done earlier. This ensures that none get dry or overcooked.
Grilling, Sauce Prep, and Finishing with Cheese and Tomatoes
Now for the magic. Melt the butter in a cast iron skillet set over medium heat.. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, letting the mixture simmer for a minute or two to deepen the flavor.
Place your grilled chicken back into the pan. Flip each piece in the lemon butter sauce so it’s well coated. Place 1 to 2 slices of fresh mozzarella over each chicken cutlet.
Cover the pan and turn the heat down to let it cook gently. Let the cheese melt gently into the chicken. This is where grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden gets its irresistible appeal. The melty cheese fuses with the buttery sauce, wrapping the chicken in comfort.
Once the cheese is melted and gooey, add a generous spoonful of pesto to each piece. Top with halved cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of chopped basil. The color, texture, and flavor at this point are absolutely restaurant-worthy.
If you want an extra cheesy finish, place the skillet under the broiler for one minute. It gives the mozzarella a golden, bubbly texture that takes this grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden copycat over the top.
Looking for something sweet to follow your savory main dish? Check out our latest post: Cottage Cheese Banana Pancakes for a soft, protein-packed breakfast-for-dinner option that’s as easy as it is satisfying.
This step-by-step process makes it clear. With just a few fresh ingredients and simple steps, your homemade grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden will be every bit as crave-worthy as the restaurant’s, if not better.
Cooking Methods for Grilled Chicken Margherita Olive Garden at Home
Outdoor Grilling for Authentic Grilled Chicken Margherita Olive Garden Taste
If you want that signature restaurant flavor, grilling your chicken outdoors is the best way to achieve it. The smoky char you get from a gas or charcoal grill brings out the bold, savory notes of this grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden copycat recipe.
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly grease the grates to keep the chicken from sticking during grilling. Place the seasoned chicken breasts or cutlets on the grill and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. At 162°F, the chicken is nearly done. Let it rest and it’ll finish reaching 165°F.
This technique seals in moisture, giving your grilled chicken Margherita Olive Garden style a juicy, perfectly seared finish.
Indoor Grill Pan or Skillet for Easy, Everyday Cooking
No grill? No problem. You can still enjoy grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden in your kitchen using a stovetop grill pan or cast iron skillet. It’s the perfect method for weeknights, rainy days, or anyone without access to outdoor grilling.
Heat your pan over medium-high heat, add a splash of olive oil, and cook the chicken cutlets until golden brown on both sides. Again, aim for 162°F and let the chicken rest while you prepare the sauce and toppings.
The indoor method works beautifully and gives you all the melty, saucy goodness of the original Olive Garden grilled chicken margherita, with none of the outdoor hassle. You can even make the lemon butter sauce in the same pan, which means fewer dishes and faster cleanup.
Looking for more easy dinner wins? Check out our Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust for a fun, protein-rich twist on pizza night that pairs perfectly with Italian flavors.
Whether you’re grilling outside or cooking indoors, the results are equally delicious. This recipe adapts to your lifestyle while keeping the bold flavors of grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden front and center.
Side Dishes and Veggies to Pair With Grilled Chicken Margherita Olive Garden Style
Perfect Pairings to Complete Your Grilled Chicken Margherita Olive Garden Meal
Once you’ve mastered the main course, it’s time to talk sides. The best part about this grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden recipe is how easily it pairs with a variety of side dishes. Whether you want something light, hearty, or somewhere in between, there’s a perfect match to round out your plate.
Start with pasta. A small serving of angel hair tossed in olive oil or lemon garlic butter makes a beautiful base. You can also spoon your grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden chicken and sauce right on top for a satisfying finish. Want to keep it light? Zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or cauliflower rice make excellent low-carb choices that soak up all that lemony, garlicky goodness.
Garlic bread is another simple addition that always works. Toasted with a brush of olive oil and a sprinkle of Italian herbs, it’s the ideal vehicle for scooping up leftover pesto or melted mozzarella from your plate.
Check out our Cottage Cheese Chocolate Mousse if you’re planning to follow this savory Italian dish with a rich and creamy dessert.
Vegetable Sides That Balance Flavor and Nutrition
The bold flavors in grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden call for vegetable sides that are fresh, crisp, and flavorful. Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant offer a wonderful contrast to the creamy cheese and lemon sauce. A handful of sautéed spinach or steamed green beans with a touch of garlic butter adds vibrant color and nutrients to your plate.
Want to level up your presentation? Serve this grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden copycat over a bed of arugula and cherry tomatoes for a warm salad-style twist. The peppery greens complement the rich cheese and pesto beautifully.
This dish is also perfect with a simple caprese salad on the side. Tomato, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic drizzle create a familiar echo of the flavors already in the chicken while adding a chilled, refreshing element to the meal.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Cottage Cheese Egg Bites for a protein-packed side you can make ahead and reheat when needed.
With so many side dish options, your homemade grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden dinner can be tailored to fit any mood, season, or dietary need. That’s what makes it such a winner in every home kitchen.
Storing and Reheating Grilled Chicken Margherita Olive Garden Style
How to Store Grilled Chicken Margherita Olive Garden the Right Way
After enjoying a delicious meal, you might find yourself with leftovers. The good news is that grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden stores surprisingly well when handled properly. The trick is to separate the toppings from the chicken to keep everything fresh and flavorful.
Start by removing the tomatoes, melted mozzarella, and pesto before storing. Place the grilled chicken in an airtight container, and keep the toppings in a separate small dish. This helps preserve the texture and keeps the cheese from turning rubbery.
Refrigerated this way, your grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden leftovers will last 4 to 5 days. Make sure your fridge is set to a safe temperature, ideally below 40°F, to keep the chicken fresh.
Best Reheating Methods for Grilled Chicken Margherita Olive Garden
For best results, avoid using the microwave when reheating. Instead, use a skillet for the best results. Heat a tablespoon of butter or olive oil in the pan, then add the chicken. Let it warm gently over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, flipping halfway through. This keeps the texture tender and juicy, just like the original grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden experience.
Once the chicken is warmed through, layer the mozzarella back on top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt completely. Add the pesto and tomatoes right before serving. If you want to revive the lemon butter sauce, add a splash of broth or water to the skillet and whisk it in as the chicken reheats.
This method keeps the moisture and flavor locked in, making your leftovers taste almost as good as the day you made them.
Want another meal that reheats beautifully? Don’t miss our Blueberry Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bake for a comforting make-ahead option perfect for busy mornings or meal prep days.
By following these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden recipe again and again without sacrificing taste or texture.
Want more recipes like this grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden copycat? Join our food-loving community on Facebook where we share weekly meal ideas, kitchen tips, and behind-the-scenes peeks from Melting Kitchen. For visual inspiration, follow us on Pinterest and save all your favorite recipes in one place. Let’s make everyday cooking feel exciting again!
Grilled Chicken Margherita Olive Garden FAQ
What is chicken Margherita Olive Garden?
Grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden is a popular menu item featuring grilled chicken breasts topped with fresh mozzarella, basil pesto, and juicy cherry tomatoes. It’s served in a light lemon butter sauce that adds brightness to every bite. This dish draws inspiration from traditional margherita flavors—mozzarella, tomato, and basil—layered over tender grilled chicken instead of pizza crust. It’s a flavorful, protein-packed meal that feels both indulgent and fresh.
How many calories are in Olive Garden grilled chicken Margherita?
The original grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden entree contains around 540 to 590 calories per serving, depending on portion size and any added sides. Our homemade copycat version provides approximately 586 calories, including the mozzarella, butter sauce, and pesto. If you’re looking to reduce calories, you can cut back on the cheese or use a lighter homemade pesto.
Is grilled chicken Margherita from Olive Garden keto friendly?
Yes, the grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden recipe is considered keto-friendly for most people following a low-carb diet. With about 6 grams of carbs per serving, this dish fits well into a ketogenic lifestyle, especially if served without starchy sides like pasta or bread. You can keep it low-carb by pairing it with sautéed spinach, cauliflower rice, or grilled zucchini.
What has the most protein at Olive Garden?
Among high-protein options at Olive Garden, the grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden dish ranks high. It offers over 45 grams of protein per serving, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to hit their protein goals. Other contenders include the Herb-Grilled Salmon and the 6 oz. Sirloin, but the margherita chicken stands out for its flavor and balance of nutrients.
Conclusion: Why This Grilled Chicken Margherita Olive Garden Recipe Is a Must-Try
There’s a reason this grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden copycat has become a go-to favorite in kitchens like yours and mine. It’s simple, fast, and bursting with bright, bold Italian flavors that feel both comforting and fresh. Whether you grill outdoors or cook it indoors, each bite delivers that irresistible combo of juicy chicken, melty mozzarella, basil pesto, and zesty lemon garlic sauce.
This is the kind of recipe that makes weeknight cooking feel special without piling on stress. You get restaurant-quality results in under 30 minutes, using real, fresh ingredients you probably already have on hand. From casual family dinners to impressive weekend meals, this grilled chicken margherita Olive Garden dish is one you’ll want to make again and again.
Looking for more protein-packed comfort food?
Check out our Cottage Cheese Banana Pancakes for a high-protein twist on a breakfast classic that’s also perfect for dinner.
