Grilled Chicken Caprese is a tasty dish that combines juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. Topped with fragrant basil and a drizzle of balsamic, it’s a real treat!
It’s great for a sunny day or any time you want to impress your friends. I love serving it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavors—who can resist that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, as they cook quickly and stay juicy. For a healthier option, you can use skinless thighs, which are a bit more flavorful.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil works nicely too, with a high smoke point and mild flavor.
Italian Seasoning: It brings an herbaceous touch to the dish. If you don’t have it, mix dried basil, oregano, and thyme for a quick substitute. Fresh herbs are also great if you have them on hand.
Fresh Mozzarella: It gives a creamy texture. If it’s hard to find, you can replace it with regular mozzarella or even provolone. For a dairy-free option, try a vegan cheese that melts well.
Basil: This herb adds freshness. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil can work, but use much less, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
Balsamic Glaze: This enhances the sweetness of the dish. You can make a simple balsamic reduction by simmering balsamic vinegar until thickened or substitute with a balsamic vinaigrette for a lighter touch.
How Do I Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but a few steps can help you nail it. Start by preheating the grill; a good heat ensures even cooking and searing.
- Rub the chicken with oil and seasonings to lock in flavor and moisture.
- Place the chicken on the grill and avoid lifting it too soon; let it sear for 6-7 minutes on each side. If you move it around, it can stick and tear.
- Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s at 165°F (75°C). This guarantees safety and tenderness.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
Following these steps will make your grilled chicken come out juicy and delicious every time!
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 Topping:
- 2 cups 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 recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes to have your delicious Grilled Chicken Caprese ready to eat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and becomes nice and juicy.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper together. Take this flavorful blend and rub it all over both sides of each chicken breast to make them tasty.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Now, it’s time to grill! Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill and let them cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) so you know they’re fully cooked.
4. Add the Toppings:
In the last few minutes of grilling, it’s time to get cheesy! Place a slice of fresh mozzarella on each chicken breast, followed by a slice of tomato. Close the grill lid, and let the cheese melt for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Let It Rest:
After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy and flavorful.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the chicken and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Now your Grilled Chicken Caprese is ready to enjoy—delicious and full of flavor!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more flavor and juiciness to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time since thighs may take a couple of minutes longer to reach the proper 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 provolone cheese as a substitute. Just keep in mind that fresh mozzarella adds a nice creamy texture, while shredded will still be delicious but melt differently.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can marinate the chicken in the olive oil and seasoning mix a few hours in advance or even overnight in the fridge for extra flavor. Just grill it fresh when you’re ready to serve. If you need to, you can also grill the chicken early and reheat it briefly on the grill before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or grill to preserve the texture, and avoid the microwave if possible, as that can make the chicken rubbery.
