This Easy Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken is a tasty dish with juicy chicken, sweet peaches, fresh mozzarella, and basil. It’s perfect for summer cooking and super simple to make!
Grilling brings out the best flavors, and who can resist that juicy peach topping? I love serving it with a side salad for a fresh and bright meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish because they cook quickly and evenly. If you’re short on time, consider using chicken tenders or thighs for a juicier option.
Peaches: Ripe peaches add sweetness and freshness. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines or apricots can work well for a similar flavor and texture.
Fresh Mozzarella: The creamy texture of fresh mozzarella is ideal here. If you can’t find it, use regular mozzarella, but try to avoid low-fat versions as they may not melt as well.
Basil: Fresh basil provides aromatic freshness. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use a pinch of dried basil, but the flavor won’t be as bright.
Balsamic Glaze: This adds a wonderful sweetness and acidity. If you’re out of balsamic glaze, a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice can also enhance the dish.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with some attention, you can get it right every time! Here’s a simple guide to help you achieve juicy, flavorful grilled chicken:
- Start with a clean grill grates, and preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Use a marinade or seasoning to flavor the chicken; the olive oil mixture in this recipe works great.
- Cook chicken breasts without moving them for the first half to get nice grill marks. Once you flip them, it should be easy to tell when they’re ready to come off.
- Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, aiming for 165°F (75°C) for safe, cooked chicken.
With these tips, grilling chicken will be easier, making your Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken a hit!
How to Make Easy Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced thinly and some whole leaves for garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes to cook on the grill. Total time from start to finish is about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill:
Begin by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This is important to achieve those lovely grill marks and proper cooking of the chicken.
2. Seasoning the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. This flavorful mixture will coat your chicken and keep it moist while grilling. Brush both sides of each chicken breast with the olive oil mixture.
3. Grilling the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on one side, then flip and grill for another 6-7 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The chicken should be nicely charred and cooked through.
4. Grilling the Peaches:
While the chicken is grilling, slice your peaches. After flipping the chicken, place the peach slices on the grill for about 1-2 minutes per side, just until they get nice grill marks and soften slightly. Remove them from the grill and set aside.
5. Assembling the Dish:
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a serving platter. Layer each grilled chicken breast with slices of fresh mozzarella and the grilled peach slices. Don’t be shy with the toppings!
6. Drizzle and Garnish:
Once assembled, drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra touch of flavor. Sprinkle the sliced fresh basil over the top and add whole leaves for garnish. This adds color and that aromatic basil kick!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken immediately while it’s warm. This dish combines delicious sweet, savory flavors and will surely impress your friends and family!
Enjoy your wonderful meal! This dish perfectly balances juicy peaches, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, making it a delightful summer favorite!
FAQ about Easy Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving on the grill. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they may take a few extra minutes to reach the correct internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Peaches?
No problem! You can substitute fresh peaches with nectarines, apricots, or even canned peaches (just make sure to drain them well). Grilling canned peaches for a minute will also add a nice touch!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use either the microwave or heat gently on the stove until warmed through. Keep in mind that the texture of the peaches may change slightly upon reheating.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can prepare and grill the chicken and peaches ahead of time. Simply store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken and peaches, then assemble with mozzarella and basil just before serving for the best flavor!
