This Grilled Chicken Caprese is a yummy dish featuring juicy chicken topped with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and vibrant basil. It’s a real crowd-pleaser!
On warm days, I love serving this with a side of crisp salad. The flavors blend perfectly, making dinner feel like a special treat even on a busy night. Enjoy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they grill nicely without drying out. If you want a different texture, consider using chicken thighs—they’re juicier. You can also use grilled turkey cutlets as a lighter alternative.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil works well too. Canola oil is fine if you have dietary restrictions, but it has a milder taste.
Fresh Mozzarella: While fresh mozzarella provides a creamy texture, you can use burrata for an extra indulgent twist. If you can’t find these, sliced provolone or shredded mozzarella also works, but may skip that fresh taste.
Basil: Fresh basil really makes this dish shine. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil can be used—just remember to use less since dried herbs are more concentrated. You can also try using fresh parsley or even mint for a different flavor.
Balsamic Glaze: Balsamic glaze adds sweetness and tang. If you don’t have it, you can make your own reduction by simmering balsamic vinegar until thickened, or use a good quality balsamic vinegar for a sharpness that works well too.
How Can I Grill Chicken Without Drying It Out?
Grilling chicken can be tricky! To keep it juicy, marinating is key. You can create a simple marinade with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and Italian herbs. Letting the chicken soak for 20-30 minutes helps flavor and moisture.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for an even cook.
- Don’t forget to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking!
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, checking for that internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- In the last 2 minutes, place mozzarella on top. The residual heat will melt it perfectly.
Resting the chicken for a few minutes after grilling helps keep those juices locked in. Happy grilling!
How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
For the Toppings:
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced or torn
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or reduction
- Optional: 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar for marinating
How Much Time Will You Need?
This grilled chicken caprese recipe should take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, plus optional marinating time of 20-30 minutes. Overall, you can have a delicious meal ready in around 30-60 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This helps get those nice grill marks and ensures even cooking.
2. Marinate the Chicken (Optional):
If you want to boost the flavor, marinate the chicken breasts. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, balsamic vinegar (if using), salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs. Let the chicken soak in this mixture for 20-30 minutes. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and go straight to seasoning!
3. Prepare the Chicken for Grilling:
After marinating (if you did), take the chicken out and brush it lightly with a bit more olive oil. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs for extra flavor.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through and have nice char marks. To be sure they’re done, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Add the Mozzarella:
In the last 2 minutes of grilling, place a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to let the cheese melt slightly.
6. Assemble the Dish:
Remove the chicken from the grill and put it on a serving plate. Layer the slices of tomato evenly over the melted mozzarella, and sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top.
7. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze:
Finish by drizzling balsamic glaze over the chicken for a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Grilled Chicken Caprese warm. It’s lovely on its own or paired with a side salad or some crusty bread. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before grilling. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the quick method by placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Mozzarella?
If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, you can use burrata for a creamier option, or even sliced provolone or shredded mozzarella. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will differ slightly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven or microwave, and add an extra slice of cheese on top if you want to melt it again!
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Absolutely! Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned chicken in a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through. Add tomatoes and basil just before serving to keep them fresh!
