This Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad brings together juicy grilled chicken, fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Drizzled with olive oil, it’s a tasty and colorful dish!
I love how simple it is to whip up for lunch or dinner. Plus, it makes me feel fancy with all those colors. You might even want to eat it outside to show it off! 🌿🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for a juicy bite. If you’re looking for a leaner meat, turkey breasts can be a great alternative. For a vegetarian option, consider portobello mushrooms or firm tofu.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps with browning the chicken. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil or vegetable oil works fine! I personally love the flavor of infused olive oils, like garlic or basil, for extra taste.
Fresh Mozzarella: This creamy cheese is a must for that authentic Caprese flavor. If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, you can use regular mozzarella, but your dish will have a different texture. Vegan cheese can work too if you’re dairy-free.
Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes bring sweetness to each bite. I like using heirloom tomatoes for their flavor and color variety. Cherry tomatoes also work if you want smaller pieces — just slice them in half.
Balsamic Glaze: This adds a nice tangy sweetness. If you don’t have it, try a splash of balsamic vinegar! You could also make a quick reduction by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but you can get it just right with a few tips. First, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high. This helps create those nice grill marks and locks in moisture.
- Brush the chicken with your oil mixture to add flavor and prevent sticking.
- Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- During the last 2 minutes, add the mozzarella and tomatoes to melt the cheese and warm the tomatoes up.
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes off the grill; this helps it stay juicy.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly grilled chicken every time! Enjoy your Caprese Salad!
Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- Balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of grilling time. So, in about 25 minutes, you can have a vibrant, flavorful dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This helps to create a nice sear on the chicken, locking in those juicy flavors.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Brush this flavorful mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. This will not only add taste but also keep the chicken moist while grilling!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You want them nicely charred and fully cooked. Don’t forget to keep an eye on them!
4. Add the Toppings:
In the last 2 minutes of grilling, place a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese and a slice of tomato on each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to let the cheese melt into gooey perfection.
5. Plate and Garnish:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the grill and place it on a serving platter. Sprinkle the fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor and color.
6. Drizzle and Serve:
Just before serving, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or reduction to each piece. This adds a sweet and tangy finish. Enjoy warm as a main dish or alongside a fresh green salad!
Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of this classic Italian-inspired salad with the smoky goodness of grilled chicken! It’s a perfect dish for a casual dinner or a gathering with friends! 🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s essential to thaw them completely before grilling! Thaw frozen chicken breasts in the fridge overnight, or for quicker results, seal them in a plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Mozzarella?
If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, you can use regular mozzarella cheese, though the texture will differ. For a dairy-free option, try using a vegan mozzarella that melts well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying it out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to add grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or even arugula for an extra crunch and flavor. You can also toss in avocado slices for creaminess!
