Grilled Chicken Caprese

Grilled Chicken Caprese is a fresh and flavorful twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad. Juicy grilled chicken breasts are topped with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, then drizzled with a balsamic glaze for a simple yet elegant dish. It’s perfect for warm-weather meals, light dinners, or impressive gatherings without much effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines fresh and vibrant Italian flavors
• Great for weeknight dinners or special occasions
• Low in carbs and high in protein
• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
• Naturally gluten-free
• Delicious straight off the grill
• Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
• Can be served on its own or with sides
• Elegant presentation with little effort

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh mozzarella slices
• Ripe tomatoes (sliced)
• Fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze or reduction

directions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the chicken breasts with the oil mixture on both sides.
4. Grill the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. During the last 2 minutes of grilling, top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella and a tomato slice. Close the grill lid to melt the cheese slightly.
6. Remove from the grill and top with fresh basil leaves.
7. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Use grilled boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness
• Add a layer of pesto under the mozzarella for more flavor
• Swap balsamic glaze with a drizzle of honey and lemon
• Serve over a bed of arugula or mixed greens
• Add avocado slices for creaminess
• Use heirloom tomatoes for extra color and sweetness

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes or microwave in short bursts until warmed through. For best results, reheat gently to avoid overcooking the chicken.

FAQs

Can I make Grilled Chicken Caprese ahead of time?

Yes, you can grill the chicken in advance and store it separately. Add cheese, tomatoes, and basil just before serving for freshness.

What’s the best way to make balsamic glaze?

Simmer balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until it reduces by half and thickens into a glaze.

Can I cook the chicken on a stovetop instead of grilling?

Yes, use a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until browned and fully cooked.

What type of mozzarella works best?

Fresh mozzarella slices or mozzarella medallions work best for this recipe.

Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of slices?

Yes, halved cherry tomatoes work well as a topping or in a side salad with the chicken.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and fits into a keto diet.

What should I serve with Grilled Chicken Caprese?

Great options include grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, pasta salad, or a fresh green salad.

How do I keep the chicken moist?

Marinate the chicken briefly and avoid overcooking. Let it rest before serving to retain juices.

Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?

Absolutely, store-bought glaze works perfectly and saves time.

Can I turn this into a sandwich?

Yes, serve the grilled chicken in a toasted bun or ciabatta roll for a delicious Caprese chicken sandwich.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Caprese is a quick, easy, and elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its fresh ingredients and savory balsamic drizzle, this meal captures the essence of summer on a plate. Whether you’re entertaining or making a weeknight dinner, this flavorful recipe is sure to become a favorite.

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