Grilled Chicken Caprese is a fresh and tasty dish that combines juicy grilled chicken with sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s like a summer party on a plate!
Who can resist the colorful layers and that cheesy goodness? I love serving it with a drizzle of balsamic glaze—talk about a flavor boost! Perfect for easy weeknight dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are perfect for grilling, as they cook evenly. You can use thighs if you prefer, as they have more flavor and stay juicier.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and moisture. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil works great too since it has a high smoke point and a mild taste.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme gives a nice Mediterranean vibe. You can substitute with individual dried herbs if you don’t have the blend, just adjust the amounts to your taste.
Fresh Mozzarella: This cheese melts beautifully. If you can’t find it, burrata or regular mozzarella can be used. Just know that burrata is creamier!
Balsamic Glaze: A key finishing touch! If you don’t have any, you can reduce balsamic vinegar on the stove until thick. It’s an excellent way to add sweetness and acidity.
How Do I Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but a few tips can make it easy. The key is to ensure even cooking and to keep it juicy.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for a nice sear.
This helps lock in juices. - Use a marinade or rub, like the olive oil mixture, for added flavor and moisture.
- Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes, but the best guide is the internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is super helpful!
- During the last few minutes, add cheese and tomatoes. This allows the cheese to melt without overcooking the chicken.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, making every bite juicy!
How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings:
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Grilled Chicken Caprese takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend around 30-35 minutes making this delicious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets those beautiful grill marks.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Take your chicken breasts and rub this flavorful mixture all over them, making sure they are well-coated.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Carefully place the chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to be cooked through and to have nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for it to be safe to eat.
4. Add the Cheese and Tomatoes:
In the last 2-3 minutes of grilling, add a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast, followed by a slice of tomato. Close the grill lid to help the cheese melt beautifully.
5. Rest the Chicken:
Once the cheese is melted and the chicken is fully cooked, take the chicken off the grill. Let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle and keeps the chicken nice and moist.
6. Top with Fresh Ingredients:
After resting, sprinkle each chicken breast with fresh chopped basil and drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top. This adds a wonderful flavor and makes the dish look appealing.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Grilled Chicken Caprese warm, garnished with extra basil if you like. Each bite is a delicious combination of flavors! Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute if you prefer dark meat. They’re juicier and add a bit more flavor. Just adjust the grilling time to about 8-9 minutes on each side, as they might take a little longer to cook through!
What if I Don’t Have Italian Seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own blend by combining equal parts dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. A pinch of garlic powder wouldn’t hurt either. Mix it up and rub it on the chicken just like you would with the store-bought seasoning!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken in the olive oil and seasoning mixture a few hours ahead or even overnight in the fridge. Just be sure to bring the chicken to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before grilling for even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken Caprese?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a grill or in the oven at a low temperature to avoid drying it out. You can add a splash of olive oil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra moisture!
