This Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese is a tasty dish that brings together juicy grilled chicken, fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s drizzled with balsamic glaze for that extra zing!
You can whip this up for a quick dinner or impress friends at a barbecue. I love how colorful it is—feels like summer on a plate! Plus, who doesn’t love melted cheese? 🧀🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish because they grill nicely and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a change, try using chicken thighs for a bit more flavor or even turkey breasts if you prefer a leaner option!
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps with grilling. If you’re out of olive oil, you can substitute with avocado oil or even melted butter for a different taste.
Fresh Mozzarella: The creamy texture of mozzarella is key here. If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, regular mozzarella works, but I recommend looking for the whole milk variety for the best melt. You could also try burrata for an extra creamy twist!
Balsamic Glaze: This adds sweetness and acidity to the dish. If you don’t have it, you can make a quick version by simmering balsamic vinegar until it reduces, or use a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but it’s all about the temperature and timing. Here are some tips to get it just right:
- Start with medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F). This ensures a good sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken is safe to eat at 165°F internally.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This keeps it juicy!
With these tips and adjustments, you’re ready to grill some flavorful Chicken Caprese that’s sure to impress!
Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. Altogether, you can expect to have this delicious grilled chicken caprese ready in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat—this will ensure you get nice grill marks and a juicy chicken. If you’re using a stovetop grill pan, get that heated up as well.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will add flavor to your chicken. Brush this mixture generously over both sides of each chicken breast to coat them well.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on one side until they’re nice and golden brown, then flip them over and cook for another 6-7 minutes. You want the chicken to be fully cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Add Cheese and Tomatoes:
During the last 2 minutes of cooking, place a slice of mozzarella cheese and a slice of tomato on top of each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to help the cheese melt deliciously over the chicken.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once the cheese is melted and the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill. Transfer the chicken to serving plates and sprinkle some fresh chopped basil over the top. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for that sweet and tangy flavor kick.
Enjoy your delicious and easy grilled chicken caprese!
Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese FAQ
Can I Use Different Herbs or Seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the herbs according to your taste. Fresh basil, thyme, or oregano would work wonderfully. You can even experiment with some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, consider using a microwave or a skillet on low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Can I Make This with Skin-On Chicken?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts or thighs! Just remember that they may take a few extra minutes to cook through thoroughly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F internally.
What Can I Serve with Grilled Chicken Caprese?
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or a fresh vegetable medley. You could also serve it over pasta or quinoa for a heartier meal!
