This Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese is a tasty dish that’s perfect for summer! Juicy grilled chicken, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella are topped with basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
I love how colorful and fresh this meal looks on the plate! It’s super easy to make, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy weekend get-together. Yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the easiest to grill and serve. If you need a substitute, try chicken thighs for a more juicy option. Just adjust your cooking time!
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps with grilling. You can swap it out for avocado oil or melted butter for a different flavor.
Garlic Powder: If you prefer fresh garlic, one clove minced can replace the powder. Fresh garlic offers a stronger taste!
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have this blend, feel free to use a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme. Just a pinch of each will work well.
Fresh Mozzarella: While fresh mozzarella is creamy and delicious, you can use regular mozzarella or even provolone if that’s what you have on hand.
Balsamic Glaze: If you can’t find balsamic glaze, you can make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar over low heat until thickened. It adds a nice sweetness!
How Do I Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken might seem tricky, but it’s simple with just a few tips! First, start with a preheated grill to help the chicken cook evenly. Use a medium-high heat to keep the outside from burning while the inside cooks through.
- Rub the chicken breasts with oil and seasoning to enhance flavor and prevent sticking.
- Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side; avoid flipping too often, or it won’t get those nice grill marks.
- Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat.
- Letting the cheese melt in the last few minutes helps achieve that gooey goodness without overcooking the chicken.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly grilled chicken every time! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced or torn
- Balsamic glaze or reduction, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and around 15 minutes to grill. So, you’ll have a tasty, fresh meal ready in about 25 minutes! Perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This is key in getting that perfect sear on the chicken and ensuring it cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir it together until well mixed. Now, take this mixture and rub it evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. This will add flavor and help keep the chicken moist while grilling.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Don’t forget to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
4. Melt the Mozzarella:
When the chicken is almost done, place one slice of fresh mozzarella cheese on each breast. Close the grill lid and let the cheese melt for about 2 minutes. It’ll get all gooey and delicious!
5. Add the Toppings:
Once the chicken is off the grill, top each piece with a slice of fresh tomato and a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves. The combination of flavors is so refreshing!
6. Drizzle and Serve:
Finally, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the chicken for that sweet and tangy flavor boost. Serve your grilled chicken Caprese right away and enjoy it warm!
Happy cooking! Enjoy this easy and delightful dish with family or friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute and will add extra juiciness to the dish. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so be sure to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken in the olive oil and spices up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill. This will enhance the flavors even more!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or warm on the stove over low heat. You might want to add a little splash of olive oil or broth to keep the chicken moist.
What Can I Serve with Grilled Chicken Caprese?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even pasta. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s both healthy and delicious!
