This Grilled Chicken Caprese is a tasty dish that combines juicy grilled chicken with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and fragrant basil. It’s like a summer picnic on a plate!
It’s so easy to whip up, and I love how colorful it looks. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and you have a fun meal everyone will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey cutlets work well too. For a vegetarian option, try grilling portobello mushrooms or thick slices of eggplant.
Italian Seasoning: This blend adds lots of flavor. In a pinch, mix dried basil, oregano, and thyme for a homemade version. You can also use fresh herbs if you have them—they’ll give it a lovely freshness!
Fresh Mozzarella: I love using fresh mozzarella for its creamy texture. If it’s hard to find, you can use regular mozzarella or even burrata for a richer taste, though it will be less firm.
Basil Leaves: Fresh basil really brightens this dish. If you’re out, try using parsley or arugula for a different, yet tasty, twist.
Balsamic Glaze: The glaze adds a tangy sweetness. If you don’t have any, balsamic vinegar drizzled over can work in a pinch! Just add a little honey to balance the acidity.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
Grilling chicken might seem tricky, but with the right steps, you can achieve a juicy and flavorful result. Here’s how to get it right:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high for even cooking. A hot grill helps get those nice grill marks.
- Season the chicken well on both sides. This not only adds flavor but helps form a nice crust.
- Don’t skip the olive oil! Brushing it on prevents sticking and adds flavor.
- Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, but keep an eye on it! Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps juices redistribute, keeping it moist and delicious!
By following these steps, your grilled chicken will turn out perfectly every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Delicious Grilled Chicken Caprese Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh Toppings:
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or reduction
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to grill. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets those beautiful grill marks.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and season both sides generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken and pair beautifully with the toppings.
3. Add Olive Oil:
Use a brush or your hands to coat each seasoned chicken breast with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking on the grill and makes for a juicy chicken.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
5. Prepare for Serving:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and transfer it to a serving platter. Let it rest for a few minutes.
6. Layer with Fresh Ingredients:
While the chicken is still warm, top each breast with slices of fresh mozzarella and ripe tomato. The heat from the chicken will slightly melt the cheese for a delicious effect.
7. Add Fresh Basil:
Sprinkle the thinly sliced fresh basil evenly over the mozzarella and tomatoes. The basil adds a fragrant and flavorful touch to your dish.
8. Finish with Balsamic Glaze:
Drizzle balsamic glaze over the entire dish for a tangy sweetness that complements the flavors perfectly.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Grilled Chicken Caprese warm and enjoy this fresh and flavorful meal! Perfect for lunch or dinner!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the grilling time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through. Ensure they also reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prep the chicken by seasoning it and storing it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before grilling. Alternatively, you can grill the chicken in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the grill before adding the toppings.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Balsamic Glaze?
No worries! If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can use plain balsamic vinegar. Just drizzle it over the finished dish, but consider adding a touch of honey or sugar to balance the acidity for a sweeter finish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Grilled Chicken Caprese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the toppings separate and add them fresh when reheating to maintain their texture and flavor!
