This Grilled Chicken Caprese combines juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for summer nights!
I love how this dish looks so fancy but is easy to make! Just grill the chicken, layer on the goodies, and enjoy a taste of Italy right at home—no passport needed! 🇮🇹
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe as they grill nicely. If you prefer dark meat, you can swap them for thighs. They can be just as juicy and flavorful!
Olive Oil: This adds great flavor, but you can also use avocado oil or even sunflower oil if you need a neutral taste. They’ll work similarly to help the marinade cling to the chicken.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is ideal for taste, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute. Use about 1/8 teaspoon since it’s more concentrated.
Tomatoes: The best choice is ripe, juicy tomatoes. If they’re out of season, you can use cherry tomatoes for sweetness or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor.
Balsamic Glaze: If you can’t find it, you can reduce balsamic vinegar on the stove until it’s syrupy. It adds a similar sweetness and tang. Alternatively, a little honey mixed into vinegar works well too!
How Do I Get Perfect Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken might seem daunting, but with a few tips, you can make it fantastic! First, marinating is key. Letting it sit in the marinade for 15-20 minutes infuses flavor and moisture.
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat for that nice sear.
- Cook without moving the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on one side to develop those attractive grill marks.
- When flipping, don’t rush! Let the chicken cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Close the grill lid after adding cheese and tomatoes to ensure everything melts together.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving – this helps keep it juicy!
How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Grilled Chicken Caprese recipe takes about 40 minutes total. You’ll spend about 15-20 minutes marinating the chicken, and then around 15 minutes grilling. It’s a fun and quick way to enjoy a classic dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken gets a nice sear and grill marks!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. This mixture will add great flavor to the chicken.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Rub the marinade all over each chicken breast, making sure they’re well coated. Let the chicken marinate for about 15-20 minutes. This will help infuse the flavors.
4. Start Grilling:
Once the grill is hot, place the marinated chicken breasts on it. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on one side until they have beautiful grill marks.
5. Add the Toppings:
Flip the chicken breasts over and top each one with sliced tomatoes and mozzarella cheese. Close the grill lid and cook for another 6-7 minutes. This will help the cheese melt beautifully.
6. Finish Cooking:
Check that the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
7. Serve with Style:
Drizzle some balsamic glaze over the grilled chicken and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Your Grilled Chicken Caprese is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm and savor the flavors.
Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken Caprese!
Can I Substitute Chicken Thighs for Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through compared to breasts.
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Mozzarella?
If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, you can substitute it with shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese. While the texture will change slightly, it will still be delicious! Just keep an eye on the grilling time to ensure it melts properly.
Can I Prepare the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day ahead! Just combine the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, dried basil, and seasonings in a container and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your chicken even tastier!
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken Caprese?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold in salads or sandwiches, or reheat it gently in the microwave or oven. Just be careful not to overheat it to keep the chicken juicy!
