This Grilled Chicken Caprese is a tasty dish that brings together juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s like summer on a plate!
Honestly, nothing beats that melting cheese and the burst of flavors from the tomatoes and basil. I love making this for easy dinners, and it looks fancy enough for guests too! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is perfect for this recipe as it grills nicely. You can also use thighs for a juicier flavor, or replace chicken with turkey cutlets if preferred.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps with grilling. If you don’t have olive oil, canola or avocado oil works well too; both have high smoke points.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a nice punch, but jarred minced garlic can save time if you’re in a rush. Use about half the amount since it’s usually more potent.
Fresh Mozzarella: This is key for that melty texture. If unavailable, low-moisture mozzarella or even provolone can substitute, though the flavor will change slightly.
Balsamic Glaze: For a sweeter note, a homemade balsamic reduction works well if you’ve got time. Or try a balsamic vinaigrette in a pinch!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken to perfection can be tricky, but a few tips can help ensure it stays juicy and flavorful:
- Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding chicken. This helps create a nice sear and grill marks.
- Brush with Oil Mixture: Coat the chicken well with the oil, garlic, and herb mixture. This adds flavor and prevents sticking.
- Don’t Flip Too Early: Let the chicken grill just long enough on one side to create grill marks before flipping—about 6-7 minutes.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer. The thickest part of the breast should read 165°F. This ensures juiciness without being undercooked.
Resting the chicken for a few minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute—don’t skip that step! This will make your chicken more delicious and tender.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Grilled Chicken Caprese recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 15-20 minutes to cook. You’ll have a delightful meal ready in about 30-35 minutes—perfect for a quick dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks!
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, and a dash of salt and pepper. This flavorful mixture will enhance the taste of the chicken.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Brush both sides of the chicken breasts thoroughly with the olive oil mixture. Make sure they’re well coated to keep them juicy while grilling.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken on the hot grill. Cook it for about 6-7 minutes on one side until you see nice grill marks. Then, flip the chicken over and grill for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Add the Toppings:
When the chicken is nearly cooked through, lay slices of fresh mozzarella and tomatoes on each breast. This is where it gets extra delicious!
6. Melt the Cheese:
Close the grill lid and let everything cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the grill and let it sit for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices inside. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves and dribble some balsamic glaze over the top for that perfect finishing touch.
8. Enjoy!
Now that your Grilled Chicken Caprese is ready, dig in and enjoy your fresh, tasty meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and provide a bit more flavor and moisture. Just keep in mind that they may require an additional few minutes of cooking time due to their thickness. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F as well.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Mozzarella?
No worries! If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, you can use regular mozzarella cheese or even provolone for a different flavor profile. Just slice it thinly so it melts quickly 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, place the chicken in a microwave or oven until warmed through. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the chicken by marinating it in the olive oil mixture a few hours ahead or even the night before. Just remember to add the cheese and tomatoes right before grilling to ensure they are fresh and melt optimally on the grill!
