Why make this recipe
Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella is a delicious and easy dish to prepare. It combines the classic flavors of the Caprese salad with juicy grilled chicken, making it perfect for a light dinner or summer barbecue. The fresh ingredients boost the taste while keeping the meal healthy and satisfying. Plus, it’s simple enough that even cooking beginners can make it!
How to make Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts, evenly sized
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 2-3 ripe vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Directions:
- Lightly pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure uniform grilling. Marinate them with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper for 15-20 minutes to infuse deep flavors.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), achieving beautiful grill marks while keeping the meat juicy.
- Once the chicken is cooked, top each breast with slices of fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes. Close the grill lid for 2-3 minutes to slightly melt the cheese and warm the tomatoes.
- Remove the chicken from the grill, scatter fresh basil leaves over the top, and finish by drizzling with balsamic glaze to enhance the iconic Caprese flavor.
How to serve Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella
Serve the Grilled Caprese Chicken hot from the grill. It pairs well with a side salad or grilled vegetables. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the flavors. This dish looks beautiful on a plate with the colorful tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil.
How to store Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella
To store leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the grill for best results. If you have leftover basil, store it separately to keep it fresh.
Tips to make Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially tomatoes and basil.
- Make sure the grill is hot before adding the chicken to get a nice sear.
- You can add other toppings like sliced avocado or pesto for variation.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a skillet on the stove or bake it in the oven.
Variation
Feel free to change up the ingredients! Try adding different types of cheese or using chicken thighs instead of breasts. You can also substitute the balsamic glaze with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice for a lighter option.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking.
What can I serve with Grilled Caprese Chicken?
You can serve it with a side salad, pasta, or grilled vegetables, making a full meal.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check.
Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delicious and easy dish combining grilled chicken with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, inspired by classic Caprese flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts, evenly sized
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 2–3 ripe vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Instructions
- Lightly pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness and marinate with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper for 15-20 minutes.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat and grill chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Top each grilled chicken breast with fresh mozzarella and sliced tomatoes, close grill lid for 2-3 minutes to melt cheese and warm tomatoes.
- Remove from grill, scatter fresh basil over the top, and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Notes
Serve with a side salad or grilled vegetables. Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the grill.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg