Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Panzanella Toscana with Grilled Chicken is a hearty twist on the classic Tuscan bread salad, combining juicy grilled chicken with crusty bread, ripe tomatoes, and a vibrant vinaigrette. It’s rustic, colorful, and full of Mediterranean flavor—perfect for warm-weather meals, outdoor gatherings, or a refreshing take on a salad-as-a-meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

grilled chicken breast
day-old crusty bread (Italian or sourdough)
ripe tomatoes
cucumber
red onion
fresh basil
extra virgin olive oil
red wine vinegar
garlic (minced)
salt
black pepper
optional: capers or olives

directions

Grill the chicken breasts until fully cooked, then slice or cube and set aside.

Cut the bread into cubes and toast in a skillet or oven until golden and crisp on the edges but still chewy inside.

Chop the tomatoes and cucumber into bite-sized pieces, and thinly slice the red onion.

In a large bowl, combine the bread, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and grilled chicken.

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Let the salad sit for 15–20 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the flavors.

Top with torn fresh basil and optional capers or olives before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Grilling and toasting time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use cherry tomatoes for extra sweetness and color.
Add mozzarella or Parmesan shavings for a cheesy touch.
Swap grilled chicken for grilled shrimp or tuna.
Include arugula or spinach for extra greens.
Use balsamic vinegar for a deeper dressing flavor.

storage/reheating

Best enjoyed fresh after the bread soaks slightly but stays somewhat crisp.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
Not suitable for freezing, as bread will become soggy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh bread?
Day-old bread is best, but you can toast fresh bread to mimic the texture.

Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes, just omit the chicken or substitute with grilled tofu.

Is this salad meant to be served cold?
It’s best served at room temperature or slightly warm.

What kind of chicken works best?
Grilled chicken breast or thighs both work well—use what you prefer.

Do I need to peel the tomatoes?
No, but you can if you want a smoother texture.

Can I make the dressing in advance?
Yes, store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

What’s a good bread to use?
Rustic Italian, ciabatta, or sourdough are great choices.

How do I avoid the salad getting too soggy?
Toast the bread well and add the dressing just before serving.

Can I use white vinegar instead of red wine vinegar?
Yes, but red wine vinegar adds more traditional flavor.

How can I add more protein?
Include chickpeas or a boiled egg along with the chicken.

Conclusion

Panzanella Toscana with Grilled Chicken is a flavorful, satisfying salad that captures the essence of Italian summer cooking. With its crisp-tender bread, fresh vegetables, and juicy grilled chicken, it’s the perfect dish for a light yet filling meal. Rustic, refreshing, and endlessly customizable—it’s a must-try.