Grilled Chicken Caprese brings the taste of Italy to your plate! Juicy grilled chicken is paired with fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with balsamic glaze.
This dish is super simple to make and looks fancy too! I love serving it with a side of crusty bread, perfect for soaking up all that deliciousness. Your family will be impressed! 🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect as they grill well and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey cutlets work nicely too.
Olive Oil: This is great for marinading and grilling. If you’re out of olive oil, canola or avocado oil can be good substitutes since they also handle high heat well.
Italian Seasoning: You can find pre-mixed Italian seasoning easily, but if you’re missing any herbs, try a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme. Fresh herbs give a nice twist too.
Fresh Mozzarella: This creamy cheese is key for a Caprese dish. If you want, you could substitute with provolone or burrata for a different flavor and texture.
Balsamic Glaze: The drizzle adds depth. If you don’t have balsamic glaze, a simple balsamic vinegar will work as a substitute—just use less to avoid overpowering the dish.
How Do You Grill Chicken to Keep It Juicy?
Grilling chicken can be tricky since it can dry out quickly. Here are some tips to keep your chicken juicy and flavorful:
- Start with a marinade. The olive oil and seasoning mixture helps add flavor and moisture.
- Preheat the grill well—this helps sear the chicken quickly and lock in juices.
- Use medium-high heat but monitor closely. Cooking for about 6-7 minutes per side should cook it thoroughly without burning.
- Always check the internal temperature. Chicken should be at 165°F (75°C) to be safe.
- Let it rest! After grilling, resting the chicken for a few minutes allows the juices to redistribute.
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:
- 8 ounces 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 to prep and roughly 15 minutes for cooking. So in total, you’re looking at around 25 minutes from start to finish. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This step is important so your chicken cooks evenly and gets nice grill marks.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This flavorful blend will season the chicken beautifully! Take a brush and apply this mixture generously on both sides of each chicken breast.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Now, place the seasoned chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and are no longer pink inside.
4. Add the Toppings:
In the last few minutes of cooking, add slices of fresh mozzarella and tomato on top of each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to help the cheese melt perfectly. It should take just a couple of minutes for that to happen!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices in. Finally, drizzle balsamic glaze over the chicken and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your Grilled Chicken Caprese!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well in this recipe and can even be juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, cooking for about 7-8 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Mozzarella?
No problem! You can substitute with regular mozzarella cheese or even provolone. Just make sure to slice it thinly so it melts nicely on the grill.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken Caprese?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or grill over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. You can add a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Without a Grill?
Yes! You can easily make this dish using a grill pan or even in your oven. If using a grill pan, cook the chicken on medium heat and use similar cooking times. For the oven, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, adding the cheese and tomatoes in the last 5 minutes.
