Grilled Chicken Caprese

Grilled Chicken Caprese is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together the fresh, juicy goodness of a classic Caprese salad with the smoky richness of perfectly grilled chicken. The combination of tender grilled chicken breast, ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil creates a delightful balance of flavors. Finished off with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this dish offers a simple yet sophisticated meal that’s perfect for a summer dinner, weeknight meal, or a light lunch.

What makes Grilled Chicken Caprese so special is how effortlessly it comes together. Whether you’re looking for a dish to impress at a gathering or just want a satisfying meal with a healthy twist, this recipe checks all the boxes. You can serve it on its own, pair it with a side of roasted vegetables, or even toss it on a salad for a heartier option. With its colorful presentation and fresh ingredients, Grilled Chicken Caprese is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple and Quick – A flavorful meal that’s ready in 30 minutes or less.
2. Healthy and Light – Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, it’s a wholesome choice.
3. Full of Flavor – Smoky grilled chicken with a burst of fresh, tangy ingredients.
4. Versatile – Great for any occasion: casual weeknight, special dinner, or even a BBQ.
5. Beautifully Presented – A vibrant, colorful dish that looks as good as it tastes.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• Fresh mozzarella (buffalo mozzarella or bocconcini)
• Fresh basil leaves
• Vine-ripened tomatoes
• Balsamic glaze
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder (optional)
• Fresh lemon juice (optional)

Variations

• Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option.
• Grilled Veggies: Add grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus to make the dish even more colorful.
• Pesto Caprese: Add a drizzle of basil pesto on top for extra flavor.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.
• Caprese Salad with Chicken: Instead of grilled chicken, you could serve the chicken cold and sliced over a bed of fresh Caprese salad ingredients.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season with olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder for extra flavor.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Slice the grilled chicken and arrange it on a plate or serving dish. Layer with slices of fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil leaves.

Step 5: Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze

Finish the dish by drizzling with balsamic glaze and a splash of fresh lemon juice (optional).

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil leaves if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or roasted veggies.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Let the Chicken Rest: After grilling, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes to retain its juices.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use ripe tomatoes and high-quality mozzarella.
• Grill with Care: Don’t overcook the chicken; keep an eye on it to ensure it stays juicy.
• Make it Ahead: You can grill the chicken in advance and assemble the dish later for a quicker meal.
• Experiment with Herbs: For added flavor, you can add fresh oregano or thyme to the chicken before grilling.

How to Serve

• On a Plate: Serve as a simple, elegant main course with a side of roasted potatoes or a garden salad.
• In a Sandwich: Serve the grilled chicken, mozzarella, tomato, and basil on a crusty baguette for a delicious sandwich or panini.
• Over Pasta: Add the grilled chicken and Caprese ingredients over a bed of pasta for a more filling dish.
• As a Salad: Slice the chicken and serve it on a bed of greens with the mozzarella, tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The grilled chicken can also be eaten cold, making it a great option for meal prepping.

Freezing

While freezing the assembled dish is not recommended due to the texture of the tomatoes and mozzarella, you can freeze the grilled chicken separately for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. If reheating the whole dish, warm it slightly and then drizzle the balsamic glaze on top just before serving to maintain its flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

Yes, a grill pan works perfectly! Just make sure it’s well-heated before cooking.

2. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check.

3. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

You can, but grilling fresh chicken adds flavor and texture. If using pre-cooked chicken, just heat it up and assemble the dish.

4. Can I make this dish in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked.

5. Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant would be a great addition.

6. Is there a substitute for balsamic glaze?

You can use regular balsamic vinegar, but a glaze provides a thicker, sweeter finish.

7. Can I use different cheese?

Yes! Fresh burrata or ricotta can be delicious substitutes for mozzarella.

8. What can I pair this dish with?

Grilled chicken Caprese pairs well with a light salad, roasted potatoes, or a simple pasta dish.

9. How long does the chicken take to grill?

It takes about 6-7 minutes per side for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, depending on thickness.

10. Can I make this recipe without grilling?

Yes! You can also pan-sear the chicken or cook it in the oven if grilling isn’t an option.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Caprese is a light, flavorful, and visually stunning dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for a special event, this recipe combines the best of summer’s fresh ingredients with the savory richness of grilled chicken. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress. Give it a try, and enjoy a healthy, delicious meal that tastes as good as it looks!

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