Grilled Chicken Caprese is a tasty dish that combines juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. Drizzled with lovely balsamic glaze, it’s a real crowd-pleaser!
What’s not to love? The colors are pretty, and it tastes amazing! I often serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the deliciousness. The best part? It’s quick to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are the way to go for this recipe. If you’re looking for a change, turkey cutlets or even grilled tofu work great for a lighter meal.
Olive Oil: I love using extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor. If you’re out, avocado oil or melted coconut oil are good substitutes and can handle the heat well.
Italian Seasoning: This blend adds great flavor, but you can make your own with dried oregano, basil, and thyme. In a pinch, use any other herbs you have on hand like rosemary or parsley.
Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella is creamy and delicious. For a lower-fat option, try using sliced part-skim mozzarella. Vegan cheese can also replace it if you prefer plant-based options.
Balsamic Glaze: If you don’t have balsamic glaze, a simple mix of balsamic vinegar and a bit of honey or maple syrup can mimic that sweet tanginess.
How Do I Get Perfect Grill Marks and Keep My Chicken Juicy?
Grilling chicken to golden perfection can be tricky, but following these tips can make a difference:
- Preheat your grill thoroughly to medium-high heat. A hot grill gives you those beautiful grill marks.
- Brush olive oil and spices generously on the chicken to help retain moisture and prevent sticking.
- Avoid flipping the chicken too soon. Grill it for about 6-7 minutes on one side until you see nice grill marks before flipping.
- After flipping, add the cheese and tomato. Closing the lid helps the cheese melt nicely while the chicken finishes cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F for safety and juiciness.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Grilled Chicken Caprese recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook on the grill. In total, you’ll want to set aside around 30-35 minutes for this tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will give your chicken a nice sear and help it cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Seasoning Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This blend will add fantastic flavor to your chicken.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and brush the seasoning mixture all over them, making sure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken on the hot grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side. You should see nice grill marks when it’s ready to flip!
5. Add Toppings:
Carefully flip the chicken breasts over. Now, place a few slices of fresh mozzarella and tomato on top of each piece. This will make for a beautiful and tasty dish!
6. Finish Cooking:
Close the grill lid and let the chicken cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, until it’s fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the cheese is all melty and gooey.
7. Let it Rest:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices to settle, making your chicken extra juicy.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Drizzle the grilled chicken with balsamic glaze, sprinkle with fresh chopped basil, and serve it warm. Enjoy your Grilled Chicken Caprese—it’s a perfect blend of flavors!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are great for grilling and will remain juicy. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Mozzarella?
If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, you can use shredded mozzarella or even provolone cheese. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be a bit different, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze to refresh the flavors!
Can I Prepare This Recipe in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Add the mozzarella and tomato slices during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to melt.
