This Grilled Chicken Caprese is a fresh and tasty dish that combines juicy chicken, sweet tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella cheese. Topped with basil and drizzled with balsamic, it’s a feast for your eyes and stomach!
Honestly, it feels like summer on a plate! I love making it for a quick dinner or a picnic. Just grill the chicken, layer on the goodies, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is easy to grill and absorbs flavor well. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey cutlets or even tofu can be great alternatives for a vegetarian version.
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. If you’re low on olive oil, avocado oil or even melted butter can work as a substitute.
Garlic Powder: This adds a nice flavor boost. If you prefer fresh, one clove of minced garlic can replace the powder. Remember, fresh garlic packs a stronger punch, so adjust to your liking!
Fresh Mozzarella: For me, fresh mozzarella is non-negotiable for that creamy texture. If it’s not available, shredded mozzarella or burrata could be used, though they may offer slightly different results.
Balsamic Glaze: This adds a sweet touch. If you don’t have any on hand, a mixture of balsamic vinegar and a pinch of sugar can work. Just simmer it until slightly thickened!
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?{” “}
Grilling can be tricky, especially getting chicken cooked just right without drying it out. Here’s how to ensure your chicken breasts come out juicy and delicious every time:
- Start with preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This helps to sear the chicken for those beautiful grill marks.
- Brush your chicken with the olive oil mix generously. This not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the chicken moist.
- Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C) in the center for safety.
- When you add the mozzarella, it’s just before the chicken is done. This allows the cheese to melt without overcooking the chicken.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly grilled chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking experience.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze or reduction
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Grilled Chicken Caprese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to grill. In total, you’ll spend about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delightful dish that’s perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to a medium-high heat. This is essential for getting great grilled marks and ensuring the chicken cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Olive Oil Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir it well to combine all the flavors.
3. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and brush both sides generously with the olive oil mixture. This step is key to infusing flavor into the chicken as it grills!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Put the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Keep an eye out for those beautiful grill marks and make sure the chicken is fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Add the Cheese:
During the last 2 minutes of grilling, place slices of fresh mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast. This will allow the cheese to melt slightly, creating a delicious topping!
6. Serve it Up:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and place it on a serving platter. Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes around and on top of the chicken for a vibrant presentation.
7. Garnish and Drizzle:
Sprinkle the sliced fresh basil over the chicken and tomatoes. Finally, drizzle the balsamic glaze evenly over everything for that sweet and tangy touch.
8. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve your Grilled Chicken Caprese immediately while it’s warm and enjoy this flavorful, satisfying dish!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you even juicier results due to their higher fat content. Just be sure to adjust the grilling time slightly, as thighs may need a minute or two longer to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Glaze?
If balsamic glaze isn’t available, you can mix balsamic vinegar with a little honey or brown sugar and simmer until it thickens. This will give you a similar sweet and tangy flavor!
Can I Make This Dish in the Oven?
Yes, if you prefer to bake it, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the seasoned chicken for about 25-30 minutes, adding the mozzarella cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Grilled Chicken Caprese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it up gently in a skillet to avoid drying out the chicken.
