This Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese is a tasty dish featuring tender chicken, fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and zesty basil. It’s like summer on a plate!
I love making this dish when I want something light and fresh. Just grill the chicken, stack it with toppings, and enjoy—perfect for sunny days or quick dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they cook quickly and remain tender. If you’re looking for a healthier option, skinless chicken thighs are great too!
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and flavor. You can substitute with avocado oil or another cooking oil if you prefer. Just ensure it has a high smoke point for grilling.
Italian Seasoning: This blend spices up the chicken nicely. If you don’t have it, a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme will work as a substitute.
Fresh Mozzarella: The creamy texture of fresh mozzarella makes this dish special. If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, shredded mozzarella can be used, but it won’t melt as nicely.
Balsamic Glaze: This adds a touch of sweetness. If you don’t have it, you can make a quick version by reducing balsamic vinegar on the stovetop, or use a splash of vinegar straight from the bottle for a bit of tang.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll have juicy, flavorful results every time! Here’s how:
- Preheat the grill. Always ensure it is hot before cooking—this helps with searing and prevents sticking.
- Marinate or season your chicken ahead of time. A simple olive oil and seasoning blend enhances the flavor.
- Cook on medium-high heat. Keep an eye on the cooking time; about 6-7 minutes per side usually works well.
- Don’t rush to flip. Let the chicken create grill marks before turning, as this adds flavor and texture.
- Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Let it rest. After removing from the grill, let the chicken sit for a few minutes to keep it juicy.
Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes on prep, which includes seasoning the chicken and slicing the tomatoes and basil. The actual grilling should take about 16-20 minutes, followed by a few minutes to plate the dish. It’s a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks.
2. Make the Seasoning Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This creates a flavorful coating that will enhance the chicken’s taste.
3. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and brush both sides with the olive oil mixture. Make sure they’re evenly coated for maximum flavor.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken on the preheated grill. Cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and you see nice grill marks. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (75°C) when the chicken is done.
5. Add the Toppings:
In the last 2 minutes of grilling, place 2 slices of mozzarella cheese and one or two tomato slices on each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to help the cheese melt.
6. Finish and Serve:
Remove the grilled chicken from the grill and place it on serving plates. Sprinkle thinly sliced fresh basil on top and drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet finish. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese!
FAQ about Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese
Can I Use Other Proteins Besides Chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works great with turkey breasts or even grilled shrimp. Just adjust the grilling time accordingly—shrimp typically cooks faster!
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Mozzarella?
If fresh mozzarella is hard to find, opt for sliced provolone or an aged mozzarella for a stronger flavor. Shredded mozzarella can also work, but it won’t melt as smoothly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or warm it gently on the stove to prevent drying out.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and slice the tomatoes and basil up to a day in advance. Just keep everything in the fridge until you’re ready to grill!
