This Grilled Chicken Caprese combines juicy chicken, fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. It’s a colorful dish that’s as tasty as it is pretty!
Who knew healthy could be this delicious? I love throwing it all on the grill for a fun dinner and drizzling some balsamic on top. It’s like summer on a plate! 😍
Making this dish is easy and quick! I often serve it with a side of pasta or just a fresh salad for a light meal. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean protein and quick cooking time. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too and stay juicier on the grill.
Italian Herbs: The dried Italian herbs mix adds great flavor. If you don’t have this mix, you can use any single herb like basil or oregano. Fresh herbs are fantastic for flavor if you have them!
Fresh Mozzarella: This cheese gives a beautiful melt. If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, you can substitute it with regular mozzarella or even provolone for a different flavor.
Balsamic Glaze: If you can’t find balsamic glaze, make a quick version by reducing balsamic vinegar on the stove until thick, or just use regular balsamic vinegar for a zesty touch without the sweetness.
How Do I Grill Chicken So It’s Juicy and Flavorful?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with the right techniques, you can achieve juicy and flavorful results. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill helps sear the chicken and lock in moisture.
- Evenly season your chicken with the spice mix. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Brush olive oil on both sides of the chicken. This prevents sticking and keeps the chicken moist.
- Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side. Don’t keep flipping them; let them sear!
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F or 75°C). This ensures juicy chicken and prevents overcooking.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Topping:
- 2 fresh mozzarella balls, sliced
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Grilled Chicken Caprese takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook on the grill, making a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure your chicken cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks.
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs. Take the mixture and rub it evenly over the chicken breasts, covering all sides well—this adds a ton of flavor!
3. Prepare the Chicken for Grilling:
Next, brush the seasoned chicken breasts with olive oil. This not only helps prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill but also helps the seasoning stay put.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the chicken on the grill and let it cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy if you have one!
5. Add the Toppings:
During the last couple of minutes of grilling, place a slice of mozzarella and a slice of tomato on top of each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to help melt the cheese just a little bit. It’s okay to let it get a nice warm melt!
6. Rest and Serve:
Once the cheese has melted to your liking, carefully remove the chicken from the grill. Let it rest for a few minutes to help keep it juicy. Finally, drizzle the chicken with balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more moisture and flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time to about 8-10 minutes on each side, checking the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Mozzarella?
If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, you can use shredded mozzarella or even provolone cheese. Just be sure to keep an eye on the grill to prevent it from over-melting!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat to maintain its juiciness.
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
You can marinate the chicken with the seasoning and olive oil a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. This will enhance the flavors! However, it’s best to grill the chicken fresh right before serving for the best texture.
