This Grilled Chicken Caprese is a fresh and tasty dish featuring juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s a colorful feast for your eyes and tummy!
I love how easy it is to make this meal. Just grill the chicken, stack your ingredients, and drizzle some balsamic on top. It’s perfect for summer evenings with friends! 🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using turkey breast. Thighs also work well for extra juiciness, just adjust the cooking time since they are thicker.
Italian Seasoning: This mix usually includes oregano, basil, and thyme. If you don’t have it, you can easily create your own blend or use dried oregano and basil separately for a similar flavor.
Tomato: A large, ripe tomato adds freshness. If they’re out of season, consider using sun-dried tomatoes or even cherry tomatoes for a sweeter taste.
Fresh Mozzarella: It melts beautifully and is key to this recipe. If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, use provolone or regular mozzarella, but keep in mind the texture may change.
Balsamic Glaze: This is optional but adds a lovely sweetness. If you don’t have it, a simple balsamic vinegar drizzle works too. You can also use a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
How Can I Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll achieve juicy results every time. Start by properly preheating your grill; it’s essential for even cooking and creating those nice grill marks!
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning; this helps the seasoning stick better.
- Don’t rush flipping the chicken. Wait until it releases easily from the grill; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes on each side.
- Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to keep it juicy.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling before serving to retain its juices.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Toppings:
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Grilled Chicken Caprese recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill and Chicken:
First, let’s get that grill ready! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill heats up, grab a small bowl. In this bowl, mix together the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Rub this tasty mixture all over the chicken breasts to make them extra flavorful.
2. Adding Olive Oil:
Next, drizzle the olive oil over the chicken breasts. Make sure each piece is nicely coated with oil. This helps to keep them juicy and adds even more flavor when grilling.
3. Grilling the Chicken:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on one side. You’re looking for nice grill marks to form. Once that side is ready, carefully flip the chicken breasts over.
4. Topping it Off:
Here comes the delicious part! On each piece of chicken, layer a slice of fresh tomato and a slice of mozzarella cheese. Close the grill lid and continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through (165°F internally) and the cheese melted and bubbly.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once everything is cooked, carefully take the chicken off the grill. Sprinkle freshly chopped basil leaves on top for a burst of color and flavor. If you like, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the chicken before serving for that extra zing!
Enjoy your Grilled Chicken Caprese! It’s simple, delicious, and sure to impress!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra flavor and moisture to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Aim for about 7-9 minutes per side, depending on their thickness.
How Can I Reduce the Fat Content in This Recipe?
If you’re looking to lower the fat content, you can skip the olive oil rub and grill the chicken breasts without it. Alternatively, use a cooking spray or brush with a small amount of broth instead. Just keep an eye on them to prevent sticking!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken Caprese?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You may want to add a little extra mozzarella before reheating for that melty goodness!
Can I Make This Recipe with Other Types of Cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses! Provolone or gouda work beautifully in this recipe. Just ensure that the cheese you choose melts well so you can achieve that delightful creamy texture.
