This Grilled Chicken Caprese is a tasty dish that layers juicy grilled chicken with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Drizzle it with balsamic glaze for extra flavor!
It’s a fun way to enjoy a classic salad as a main course! I love having this with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices. Yum! 🍽️
Making it is super easy; just grill the chicken, slice the toppings, and assemble everything. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal on warm days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts are great for grilling. If you’re looking for alternatives, thighs can add more juiciness, or you could use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the seasoning stick. You can substitute it with avocado oil for a similar flavor and higher smoke point.
Fresh Mozzarella: For the best taste and texture, fresh mozzarella is ideal. If you can’t find it, try using sliced provolone or even burrata for a creamy twist.
Basil: Fresh basil packs a punch in flavor. If it’s out of season, you could substitute with fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of dried basil, though fresh is always preferred.
Balsamic Glaze: This adds a sweet and tangy finish. If you don’t have it, a mix of balsamic vinegar with a little sugar can mimic the flavor.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken may seem tricky, but with a few simple steps, you can achieve juicy and flavorful results. First, it’s essential to preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to get that perfect sear.
- Brush the chicken generously with the seasoning mix. This not only adds flavor but also creates a nice crust.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, but use a meat thermometer for best results; it should read 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps it moist.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
For the Toppings:
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (plus extra whole leaves for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or reduction
- Optional: extra olive oil for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Grilled Chicken Caprese recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to grill. So, in just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks!
2. Prepare the Seasoning Blend:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano. This flavorful blend will add a delicious kick to your chicken!
3. Season the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and brush it generously with the seasoning mixture on both sides. Make sure they’re well coated for maximum flavor!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and the juices run clear. You can always check with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).
5. Let It Rest:
Once grilled, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices stay inside the chicken, keeping it moist!
6. Assemble the Caprese:
Layer your grilled chicken with sliced fresh mozzarella cheese, followed by tomato slices. Get creative with the placement for a beautiful presentation!
7. Add Fresh Basil:
Sprinkle the sliced fresh basil generously over the top. The aroma will be heavenly!
8. Drizzle the Balsamic Glaze:
Finish off your dish by drizzling the balsamic glaze over the entire plate for a sweet and tangy flavor.
9. Garnish & Serve:
If you have some whole basil leaves, garnish your dish with them for a pop of color. Serve immediately, and if you like, drizzle with a touch of extra olive oil for added richness!
Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Grilled Chicken Caprese!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for grilling, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier texture. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Access to a Grill?
No worries! You can prepare this dish using a grill pan on your stovetop or even bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, until fully cooked.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken in the seasoning blend for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor. It’s best to assemble the dish just before serving to keep the cheese fresh and the basil vibrant.