This Grilled Chicken Caprese is a tasty twist on the classic salad! Juicy grilled chicken is topped with fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s so bright and colorful!
Every bite feels like a sunny picnic on a plate. I love how easy it is to whip up for dinner or to impress friends. Pair it with a crusty bread, and you’re all set! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is the star here. If you want a juicier option, consider using thighs instead. They have more fat and flavor. You can also use grilled tofu for a vegetarian take!
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. Canola or avocado oil work well too. They have a higher smoke point if you prefer grilling at high heat.
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have dried Italian seasoning, try using a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme. Fresh herbs are awesome too, but you’ll need more of them—about 3 times the amount!
Fresh Mozzarella: The creaminess of fresh mozzarella is unbeatable! In a pinch, use regular mozzarella or even provolone. For a dairy-free option, look for cashew-based or almond-based cheeses.
Balsamic Glaze: Balsamic vinegar is a great substitute if you don’t have glaze. Just drizzle it on before serving, but the glaze adds a nice sweetness that you might miss!
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but a few simple tips can help keep it juicy. The key is to not overcook it. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Marinate the chicken in olive oil and herbs for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This keeps it moist.
- Cook on medium-high heat, starting with 6-7 minutes on the first side without moving the chicken. This helps it get those nice grill marks.
- Flipping gently helps retain the juices. Only flip once to prevent losing moisture.
- As the chicken finishes cooking, adding mozzarella and tomatoes allows them to warm without overcooking the chicken.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning (or herbs de Provence)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnishing
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Grilled Chicken Caprese takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and around 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a perfect dish for a quick yet impressive meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by firing up your grill! Preheat it to medium-high heat. This will give your chicken those lovely grill marks and cook it perfectly.
2. Prepare the Olive Oil Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until well mixed. This will add wonderful flavor to your chicken!
3. Season the Chicken:
Next, take each chicken breast and brush both sides with the olive oil mixture. Make sure they’re nicely coated to keep them moist and flavorful while grilling.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken on the grill. Cook it for about 6-7 minutes without moving it, so it gets those beautiful grill marks. Then, flip the chicken and grill for 5-6 more minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Add Cheese and Tomatoes:
In the final minutes of cooking, add a slice of fresh mozzarella and a slice of tomato on top of each piece of chicken. Close the grill lid to help the cheese melt beautifully!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted, carefully remove the chicken from the grill. Top with fresh basil leaves and drizzle some balsamic glaze over each piece. Serve hot with a side of your choice, and enjoy your tasty Grilled Chicken Caprese!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra flavor and juiciness to this dish. Just be sure to adjust the grilling time; thighs may need a few extra minutes compared to breasts, depending on their thickness.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Mozzarella?
No worries! If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, you can substitute it with shredded mozzarella or another cheese like provolone. Just keep in mind that the melting quality might differ slightly, but it will still taste delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm them gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. The chicken may lose a bit of moisture, so consider adding a splash of broth or water when reheating to keep it juicy.
Can I Prepare This Recipe as a Salad?
Definitely! Once grilled, slice the chicken and toss it with mixed greens, sliced tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a refreshing salad option—perfect for a lighter meal!
