This Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese is a fresh and tasty dish, bringing together juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s perfect for summer dinners!
I love how colorful and simple this meal is. You can whip it up in no time and impress your friends or family. Plus, who doesn’t love cheese and tomatoes? Yum! 🌿🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are ideal for easy grilling. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier alternative or use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: This helps in seasoning the chicken and keeping it moist. If you’re out of olive oil, coconut oil or avocado oil works well too.
Fresh Mozzarella: It gives a creamy texture. If you can’t find it, use regular mozzarella or even provolone cheese as a substitute.
Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes enhance the dish’s flavor. Heirloom tomatoes are great for their taste, but standard tomatoes work too. Canned tomatoes in a pinch add moisture and flavor, though fresh is best.
Balsamic Glaze: It adds a sweet tang. You can reduce balsamic vinegar on the stove to make a glaze or use a store-bought version for convenience.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken to perfection involves a few simple steps to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful:
- First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps to sear the chicken quickly and lock in moisture.
- Use an oil and seasoning mix to coat both sides of the chicken evenly. This adds flavor and prevents sticking.
- Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Make sure to use a meat thermometer or check that juices run clear to confirm doneness.
- Adding cheese and tomatoes in the last few minutes of grilling ensures they warm up without losing their texture.
Taking these steps will help you achieve flavorful and perfectly grilled chicken every time!
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 black pepper, to taste
- 8 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced or torn
- Balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to grill. You’ll have a delicious grilled chicken Caprese ready in about 25 minutes, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This step is important to get that lovely char on your chicken when cooking!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Brush this mixture evenly on both sides of the chicken breasts to add flavor and moisture before grilling.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken on the hot grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Look for a nice char on the outside to ensure it’s cooked and flavorful.
4. Add Toppings:
In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add 2 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese and 2 slices of ripe tomato on top of each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to help the cheese melt perfectly!
5. Serve It Up:
Once the chicken is cooked and the cheese is melted, carefully take the chicken off the grill and place it on a serving plate. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
6. Enjoy!
Serve the grilled chicken warm. This easy and fresh Caprese dish is perfect for dinner or even a special gathering with friends and family!
This dish combines the smoky char of grilled chicken with creamy mozzarella, fresh tomato, fragrant basil, and the tangy sweetness of balsamic glaze, making it a classic Caprese-inspired meal that’s easy and delicious!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute and will give you juicier results. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they might take a few extra minutes to cook through.
What If I Don’t Have Balsamic Glaze?
No problem! You can quickly make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar on the stove until it reduces and thickens. Alternatively, a splash of balsamic vinegar over the finished dish can also add great flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Add a drizzle of fresh balsamic glaze for extra flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the toppings in advance. Just store everything separately in the fridge and grill the chicken fresh when you’re ready to serve!
