This Grilled Chicken Caprese is a fresh and tasty dish that combines juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a weekend gathering!
You can’t go wrong with this bright and colorful meal. I love drizzling a little balsamic glaze on top for that extra zing. Trust me, it makes every bite feel special! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling since they cook evenly. If you prefer dark meat, use chicken thighs instead. They stay juicy and are full of flavor!
Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil enhances the dish. If you run out, you can swap with avocado oil or even melted butter for a different flavor profile.
Italian Seasoning: This mix includes herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. You can make your own mix or use fresh herbs if you have them—like fresh basil or oregano adds a vibrant taste!
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are best. If tomatoes aren’t in season, cherry or grape tomatoes work well, or you can use sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
Fresh Mozzarella: The creaminess of fresh mozzarella is ideal for this dish. If you’re in a pinch, shredded mozzarella cheese will do, but it won’t have the same texture.
Balsamic Glaze: You can make a quick homemade glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens. Honey or maple syrup can also be drizzled for sweetness instead!
How Do You Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can feel tricky, but it becomes easy with a few tips! First, always preheat your grill to the right temperature; this helps seal in the juices. Use medium-high heat to cook the chicken properly, ensuring it’s juicy inside.
- Rub the chicken with the oil and seasoning mix for great flavor.
- Place the chicken on the grill and let it cook without moving it for the first few minutes. This helps get those nice grill marks!
- Check the internal temperature after 6-7 minutes—165°F (75°C) is your goal.
- Finally, add the cheese and tomatoes in the last few minutes for melting perfection!
Letting it rest afterward is key. It allows the juices to redistribute, leading to a tasty, moist bite every time. Enjoy grilling!
How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Grilled Chicken Caprese recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 15 minutes for grilling, totaling about 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets those nice grill marks. While the grill is heating, you can get your chicken ready.
2. Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Take this tasty mixture and rub it over both sides of the chicken breasts. This will add lots of flavor while cooking!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they are no longer pink inside, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This is super important to make sure the chicken is safe to eat!
4. Add the Toppings:
During the last few minutes of grilling, layer slices of tomato and mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to help the cheese melt just right. It should become gooey and delicious!
5. Let it Rest:
Once the cheese has melted beautifully, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle, keeping your chicken moist and flavorful.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, drizzle some balsamic glaze over your delicious chicken and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves. Now it’s ready to serve! Enjoy your Grilled Chicken Caprese with your favorite side dish or salad!
Can I Use Boneless Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. They add a bit more moisture and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a couple of minutes longer to reach the desired internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Mozzarella?
If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, you can use shredded mozzarella or even a different cheese like provolone or fontina. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will change slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken Caprese?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it for about 1-2 minutes or warm gently on a grill or skillet for the best texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can marinate the chicken in the olive oil and Italian seasoning mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Just store the chicken covered in the fridge to enhance the flavors. When ready to cook, follow the grilling instructions for a quick and easy meal!
