Tired of dry, overcooked chicken breasts that leave you reaching for a glass of water with every bite? I’ve been there too. That’s why I’m excited to share this grilled chicken with charred cherry tomatoes recipe that delivers juicy, flavorful results every single time.
Hi, I’m Michael, the heart behind Foodydish! As someone who’s spent countless summer evenings perfecting the art of grilling chicken, I’ve discovered that the magic lies in the details from the right marinade to the perfect cooking temperature. This recipe combines tender, succulent chicken with blistered cherry tomatoes that burst with sweet-tart flavor in every bite.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through selecting the right chicken cuts, preparing a simple yet flavor-packed marinade, mastering the grilling technique, and creating those beautifully charred tomatoes that elevate this dish to restaurant quality. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a backyard gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Why This Grilled Chicken with Charred Cherry Tomatoes Recipe Works
- Uses affordable, easy-to-find ingredients that don’t require a special trip to specialty stores
- Features a quick marinade that infuses maximum flavor in just 30 minutes
- Provides a perfect balance of protein and vegetables in one simple dish
- Works beautifully for both weeknight dinners and weekend entertaining
- Creates Instagram-worthy presentation with minimal effort
Choosing the Right Chicken for Charred Cherry Tomato Grilled Chicken
Best Cuts for This Recipe
When making grilled chicken with charred cherry tomatoes, your choice of chicken cut makes all the difference. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work wonderfully for a leaner option, while chicken thighs offer more flavor and moisture due to their higher fat content. For the most visually impressive presentation, consider bone-in chicken breasts with the skin on they stay incredibly juicy and develop a beautiful golden crust.
Buying Tips
Look for chicken that’s pink (not gray) with no strong odor. If possible, choose organic or free-range chicken, which typically has better flavor. When buying cherry tomatoes, select firm, brightly colored ones without wrinkles or soft spots. A mix of red, yellow, and orange varieties adds visual appeal to your final dish.
Substitutions
If chicken isn’t available, you can substitute with firm white fish like halibut or even portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option. For the cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes work perfectly as an alternative, or in winter months when fresh tomatoes lack flavor, you can use sun-dried tomatoes rehydrated in warm water.
Ingredients & Prep for Grilled Chicken with Charred Cherry Tomatoes
Chicken Prep Essentials
Before marinating, pat your chicken completely dry with paper towels. This ensures the marinade adheres better and promotes better browning. For even cooking, pound chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ¾-inch) using a meat mallet or heavy pan.
Marinade Ingredients
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl, then place chicken and marinade in a zip-top bag. Massage to coat evenly and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
Pantry Staples
You’ll also need olive oil for grilling the tomatoes, balsamic glaze for drizzling, and fresh herbs like basil or parsley for garnish. A good quality sea salt and freshly ground black pepper are essential for final seasoning.
Step-by-Step Grilled Chicken with Charred Cherry Tomatoes Instructions
Pre-Cooking Grilled Chicken Prep
- Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator 20-30 minutes before cooking to take the chill off.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F).
- While the grill heats, toss the cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt.
- Oil your grill grates well to prevent sticking.
Grilled Chicken Cooking Method
- Place chicken on the preheated grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side for boneless breasts (or until internal temperature reaches 165°F).
- About 3 minutes before the chicken is done, add the cherry tomatoes to the grill in a grill basket or on skewers.
- Cook tomatoes until they begin to burst and develop char marks, about 2-3 minutes, tossing occasionally.
Grilled Chicken Doneness Check
The most reliable way to check doneness is with an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken—it should register 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part; the juices should run clear and there should be no pink in the center.
Resting Your Grilled Chicken
Transfer the grilled chicken to a clean plate and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let rest for 5-7 minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat for maximum moisture. Meanwhile, transfer your charred tomatoes to a bowl and gently toss with a little more olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky salt.
Pro Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken with Charred Cherry Tomatoes
Avoiding Tough/Dry Grilled Chicken
- Don’t overcook! This is the number one reason for dry chicken.
- Consider brining your chicken beforehand in a solution of salt water for 30 minutes.
- Keep the lid closed while grilling to maintain consistent temperature.
- Use a two-zone fire: sear on the hot side, then move to cooler side to finish cooking.
Tool Recommendations
An instant-read meat thermometer is non-negotiable for perfectly cooked chicken. A grill basket makes handling the cherry tomatoes much easier. For indoor cooking, a cast-iron grill pan works wonderfully to achieve those beautiful grill marks.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chicken and tomatoes separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. To reheat chicken without drying it out, wrap in foil with a tablespoon of chicken broth or water and warm in a 300°F oven until heated through. The charred tomatoes are delicious cold or at room temperature.
For more grilling inspiration, check out my Pinterest board where I’ve collected hundreds of mouthwatering grilled recipes to spark your creativity!
Flavor Variations for Grilled Chicken with Charred Cherry Tomatoes
Spicy Twist
Kick up the heat by adding 1 diced jalapeño to the marinade or sprinkle with red pepper flakes before serving. You can also brush the chicken with hot honey during the last minute of grilling for a sweet-spicy glaze.
Mediterranean Style
Transform this dish with a Mediterranean twist by adding olives, capers, and feta cheese to the charred tomatoes. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce for a cooling element.
Herb-Forward
Create an herb-forward version by adding a generous amount of chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage to the marinade. After grilling, sprinkle with more fresh herbs for brightness.
| Flavor Profile | Key Ingredients | Best Side Dishes | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | Lemon, garlic, oregano | Grilled vegetables, rice pilaf | Easy |
| Mediterranean | Olives, feta, capers | Greek salad, pita bread | Easy |
| Spicy | Jalapeño, hot honey | Cooling slaw, corn on the cob | Medium |
| Herb-Forward | Fresh herb blend | Roasted potatoes, simple salad | Easy |
Serving Suggestions for Grilled Chicken with Charred Cherry Tomatoes
Serve this juicy grilled chicken and blistered tomatoes over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside roasted garlic mashed potatoes to soak up all those delicious juices. For a lighter option, pair with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, or serve with grilled zucchini and yellow squash.
For a complete meal, consider adding a side of crusty artisan bread to mop up the sweet tomato juices. A simple quinoa or farro salad also makes an excellent accompaniment for a nutritionally complete meal.
FAQs About Grilled Chicken with Charred Cherry Tomatoes
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. You can also grill the chicken and tomatoes earlier in the day and serve at room temperature, which makes this perfect for picnics or meal prep.
How can I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?
Make sure your grill is properly preheated, clean the grates well, and oil them right before adding the chicken. Additionally, if the chicken doesn’t release easily, it may not be ready to flip—properly seared meat will naturally release from the grill.
Can I cook this in the oven instead?
Absolutely! Roast the chicken in a 425°F oven on a sheet pan. Add the tomatoes to the same pan during the last 10 minutes of cooking time. You won’t get the same smoky flavor, but it will still be delicious.
What’s the best way to char the tomatoes without a grill?
You can achieve beautiful char on cherry tomatoes using a cast-iron skillet on high heat or by placing them under a broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully so they don’t burn.
Conclusion
Mastering grilled chicken with charred cherry tomatoes is one of those cooking skills that will serve you well for years to come. The combination of juicy, flavorful chicken with the sweet-tart burst of charred tomatoes creates a dish that’s both impressive and comforting.
I hope you’ll fire up your grill and try this recipe tonight! The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and flexibility feel free to make it your own with different herbs or spices. Tag me in your creations on social media I love seeing how you bring these recipes to life in your own kitchens.
Remember, cooking is about creating joy around the table. Whether you’re serving this to family on a Tuesday night or to friends at a weekend gathering, this grilled chicken with charred cherry tomatoes is sure to bring smiles all around.
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How to Make Grilled Chicken with Charred Cherry Tomatoes Perfectly
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
A fresh, flavorful grilled chicken dish served with blistered cherry tomatoes and fragrant herbs. Perfect for a light, healthy dinner that’s full of summer flavor.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil, divided
1 pint cherry tomatoes
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano and basil)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
3. Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden with nice grill marks. Remove and let rest.
4. While chicken rests, heat remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3–4 minutes until blistered and slightly charred.
6. Stir in garlic and balsamic vinegar, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
7. Slice grilled chicken and serve topped with the charred tomato mixture.
8. Garnish with fresh basil and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Notes
Try adding mozzarella pearls or crumbled feta for a creamy finish.
Use a mix of colorful cherry tomatoes for a beautiful presentation.
Pairs well with quinoa, couscous, or a simple side salad.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with tomatoes
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 46g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: grilled chicken, cherry tomato topping, healthy dinner, summer recipe, light meal