If you love bursting flavors and simple elegance on your plate, this Grilled Chicken Caprese Recipe is an absolute winner. Juicy grilled chicken breasts paired with creamy fresh mozzarella, sweet cherry tomatoes, and vibrant basil, all finished with a tangy balsamic glaze – it’s like summer on a plate. This dish is quick to make yet impressively fresh and colorful, perfect for weeknights or when you want to treat guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward yet essential ingredients ensures a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Each item plays a crucial role, from the juicy chicken to the bright basil, so you get the full Caprese experience in every bite.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This is your tender, flavorful protein base that’s perfect for grilling.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps keep the chicken moist and adds a subtle fruity richness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Basic seasoning that enhances every flavor layer.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a gentle, savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Brings a classic Italian herbaceous note that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional): Adds a bright, zesty lift that’s optional but highly recommended.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy and sweet, they bring vibrant freshness and color.
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella (bocconcini or mozzarella balls, sliced): Creamy and mild, this cheese melts slightly on warm chicken for luscious texture.
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped: The aromatic herbaceous punch that defines Caprese.
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze: Drizzled on top for a perfect balance of tangy sweetness and acidity.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by giving the chicken breasts a generous brush of olive oil to lock in moisture during grilling. Season each side evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano. For an extra layer of bright flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before seasoning. This prep ensures your chicken gets that aromatic and flavorful crust while staying juicy inside.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat—hot enough to sear but gentle enough to cook through evenly. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and let them grill for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to guarantee the chicken is fully cooked yet tender. You’ll notice lovely grill marks forming, adding both flavor and visual appeal.
Step 3: Prepare the Caprese Topping
While your chicken cooks, mix together the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced fresh mozzarella, and torn fresh basil leaves in a bowl. Lightly season with salt and pepper, then toss gently to combine. This freshness-packed topping will be the star complement to your grilled chicken, providing juicy bursts and creamy contrast.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Once the chicken is off the grill, place each breast on a serving plate and pile on a generous handful of the Caprese topping. The warmth of the chicken will slightly soften the mozzarella, creating a dreamy texture. Finally, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top, infusing the dish with a sweet and tangy finish that perfectly ties all the flavors together.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Your Grilled Chicken Caprese Recipe is ready to be enjoyed immediately. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it as appealing to the eyes as to your taste buds. Each bite delivers that classic combination of smoky, savory chicken and refreshing Caprese freshness.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Caprese Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful presentation and added flavor, sprinkle extra torn basil leaves on top. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving enhances the dish’s fresh qualities even further.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp garden salad, garlic roasted vegetables, or even a serving of your favorite crusty bread to soak up the balsamic glaze. For heartier meals, couscous or quinoa with herbs works beautifully as well.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress guests by serving your grilled chicken Caprese on a rustic wooden board or a long platter layered with greens underneath. For parties, try skewering smaller chicken pieces with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil for mini Caprese kebabs that are both delicious and fun!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover grilled chicken with Caprese topping can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the balsamic glaze separate until serving to prevent sogginess.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, you can freeze the cooked grilled chicken breasts without the Caprese topping. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Add fresh toppings after thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Add the fresh Caprese topping and balsamic glaze right before serving to maintain brightness and texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of fresh mozzarella?
Fresh mozzarella is ideal for its creamy texture and mild flavor, but you can experiment with burrata or a mild feta for a different twist. Just keep in mind that the texture and meltability will vary.
What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook the chicken another way?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken on a grill pan, in a cast-iron skillet, or bake it in the oven. Just aim for the same internal temperature and a nice golden crust for that grilled flavor.
Is balsamic glaze necessary, or can I use regular balsamic vinegar?
Balsamic glaze adds a thicker, sweeter finish that beautifully complements the dish, but regular balsamic vinegar works too. If using vinegar, consider reducing it down gently on the stove to concentrate its flavor before drizzling.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
While the classic Grilled Chicken Caprese Recipe centers around chicken, you can replace the protein with grilled portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices for a satisfying vegetarian alternative.
How do I choose the best tomatoes for this recipe?
Look for ripe, fragrant cherry tomatoes or vine-ripened large tomatoes with a vibrant red color and firm texture. The fresher the tomato, the sweeter and juicier your Caprese topping will be.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Chicken Caprese Recipe is one of those magical dishes that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. It’s fresh, satisfying, and bursting with Italian-inspired goodness—the perfect meal to share with loved ones or treat yourself after a busy day. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become one of your favorite go-to recipes for easy, elegant dinners.
Print
Grilled Chicken Caprese Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A fresh and flavorful Grilled Chicken Caprese recipe combining juicy grilled chicken breasts topped with a vibrant mix of cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick and elegant dinner in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional, for extra zest)
For the Caprese Topping
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella (bocconcini or mozzarella balls, sliced)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar reduced to syrup)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. For extra flavor, you can also squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the chicken before seasoning.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and juicy.
- Prepare the Caprese topping: While the chicken is grilling, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves in a bowl. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then toss gently to mix the flavors.
- Assemble the dish: Once the chicken is grilled, top each chicken breast with a generous amount of the prepared Caprese mixture. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top for a sweet and tangy finish.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a main dish, optionally accompanied by roasted vegetables or a light salad. Enjoy the freshness and complementary flavors of this delightful meal.
Notes
- For extra zest, brushing the chicken with fresh lemon juice before seasoning enhances the flavor.
- If balsamic glaze is not available, reduce balsamic vinegar over low heat until syrupy for a homemade alternative.
- Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Fresh basil is key for authentic Caprese flavor—do not substitute with dried basil.
- This dish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
