There’s something about juicy, grilled chicken that just screams summer, especially when paired with creamy slices of mozzarella, vibrant tomato wedges, and a drizzle of rich balsamic glaze. Savor the taste of summer with this juicy Grilled Chicken Caprese, a delightful blend of flavors on your plate! This dish effortlessly brings together the best of Italian cuisine and the joy of outdoor cooking, delivering a healthy dinner that feels both indulgent and light. Each bite offers a melody of grilled sear, milky mozzarella, tangy tomato, and fragrant fresh basil, making it a true Italian classic.
With just 10 minutes of prep, 15 minutes of cooking, and a brief 5-minute rest, you can create a plate that feels like a vibrant salad and a hearty entrée all in one. At around 350 calories per serving, it keeps things light without skimping on flavor. Whether you’re firing up the barbecue on a sunny afternoon or craving a Mediterranean-inspired meal, this beginner-friendly recipe comes together quickly and reliably. Expect compliments every time you share this colorful, mouthwatering dish with friends and family.
Ever since I first served this at a family gathering under twinkling string lights in our backyard, it quickly became the go-to crowd-pleaser that bridges lunch and dinner seamlessly. There’s a certain magic in layering warm, grill-charred chicken with chilled, juicy tomato slices, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves—every bite feels like a mini celebration. My kids love helping me assemble the final layers, carefully arranging basil atop each piece before I drizzle the glossy balsamic glaze.
Rated as beginner-friendly, this healthy dinner comes together with just a few pantry staples and fresh produce. It’s the perfect summer recipe to invite friends over, and it never fails to spark conversation or requests for seconds. Whether you’re exploring Caprese salad variations or diving into Italian cuisine classics, Grilled Chicken Caprese brings sunshine to your plate and joy to your table.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GRILLED CHICKEN CAPRESE
To recreate this summer favorite, you’ll need a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that work together in perfect harmony:
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
The protein-packed base of this dish. These chicken breasts grill quickly, absorbing the seasonings and developing those irresistible char marks.
- Olive Oil
A drizzle of olive oil helps the seasonings adhere and prevents sticking on the grill. It also adds a subtle fruity richness that complements the fresh ingredients.
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper
Essential for enhancing natural flavors. A balanced sprinkle of salt and pepper brings out the savory notes in the chicken and ties the ensemble together.
- Garlic Powder
Adds a hint of savory warmth to every bite. This pantry staple infuses the chicken with an aromatic punch without overpowering the other components.
- Italian Seasoning
A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme. It brings an authentic Mediterranean flair that pairs beautifully with tomato and mozzarella.
- Fresh Mozzarella Cheese
Creamy and mild, this cheese melts smoothly over the chicken during grilling, creating a luscious, gooey layer that contrasts perfectly with firm tomato slices.
- Tomatoes
Juicy, ripe tomatoes add brightness and acidity. Their fresh, slightly sweet flavor balances the richness of the cheese and chicken.
- Fresh Basil Leaves
Fragrant and herbaceous, basil lends that unmistakable Caprese touch. It adds a pop of color and a refreshing finish to each mouthful.
- Balsamic Glaze
A concentrated reduction of balsamic vinegar that’s sweet, tangy, and glossy. A final drizzle elevates the dish with deep, complex flavor.
HOW TO MAKE GRILLED CHICKEN CAPRESE
Before you fire up the grill, let’s take a moment to appreciate how simple steps lead to big flavors. From preheating to resting, each phase ensures tender, juicy chicken topped with perfectly melted mozzarella and fresh garnishes. Follow these detailed steps for a flawless result:
1. Preheat the Grill
Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This temperature is key for achieving those signature grill marks while cooking the chicken evenly.
2. Season the Chicken
While the grill is warming, rub both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil. Generously season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to infuse bold flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts onto the hot grill. Cook for about 6–7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
4. Add the Mozzarella
During the last 2 minutes of grilling, lay two slices of fresh mozzarella cheese on each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to allow the cheese to melt into a creamy blanket.
5. Rest the Chicken
Once the cheese has melted and the chicken is fully cooked, remove the chicken from the grill. Let it rest for a couple of minutes to redistribute juices and lock in moisture.
6. Assemble the Caprese
To serve, place each grilled chicken breast on a platter. Top with fresh tomato slices and a handful of fragrant basil leaves for classic Caprese appeal.
7. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze
For an extra flavor boost, generously drizzle the balsamic glaze over the entire dish. The sweet-tangy finish ties every element together.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GRILLED CHICKEN CAPRESE
Presentation and pairing can take your Grilled Chicken Caprese from delicious to unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a lazy weekend lunch or an intimate dinner, these ideas will help you serve with style and enhance every flavor note:
- Colorful Platter Display
Arrange the chicken breasts on a large white or wooden serving board. Fan out the slices of tomato and basil for a visually stunning presentation that invites guests to dig in.
- Crusty Artisan Bread
Serve alongside warm slices of crusty bread or baguette. The crunch contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken and gooey mozzarella, making each bite more satisfying.
- Zesty Arugula Salad
Pair with a simple arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens cut through the richness of cheese and chicken, adding a refreshing balance.
- Chilled Sauvignon Blanc
Complement the dish with a glass of crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc. Its bright acidity echoes the balsamic glaze’s tang and enhances the tomato’s natural sweetness.
HOW TO STORE GRILLED CHICKEN CAPRESE
Proper storage ensures your leftovers taste nearly as good as freshly plated. Whether you’re saving extra portions for meal prep or keeping components ready for a quick lunch, follow these guidelines to maintain flavor and texture:
- Refrigeration in an Airtight Container
Place cooled chicken breasts in a sealed, airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days to keep the meat juicy and prevent drying out.
- Separate Components
If possible, store tomato slices and basil leaves in a separate container or compartment. This avoids sogginess and preserves the bright flavors of each element.
- Freezing for Longer Storage
For freezer-friendly leftovers, wrap individual chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Gentle Reheating
Reheat refrigerated chicken in a low oven (about 300°F) for 10–12 minutes to warm through without overcooking. Add fresh mozzarella and briefly broil if you’d like to restore that melty cheese layer.
CONCLUSION
From the first sizzle on the grill to that final, glossy drizzle of balsamic glaze, Grilled Chicken Caprese captures the spirit of summer and the soulful flavors of Italian cuisine. This recipe is your ticket to an effortless yet elegant meal that’s perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned grill masters alike. With just 10 minutes of prep, 15 minutes of cooking, and a brief 5-minute rest, you’ll have a healthy dinner that dazzles the senses and delights every appetite. Feel free to print this article and save it for later use—whether you’re meal-planning for the week or hosting a casual gathering, these instructions and tips will guide you to success.
I know you’ll love how simple ingredients transform into something truly special, and there’s a FAQ below if you need extra pointers or troubleshooting advice. If you give this recipe a try, please drop a comment with your experience! Did you swap in heirloom tomatoes or try a different vinegar marinade? Any questions about grilling technique or storage? I’m here to help, so let me know how it goes and share your feedback. Happy grilling!
Grilled Chicken Caprese
Description
Experience the perfect harmony of grilled chicken, creamy mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with rich balsamic glaze. A true Italian classic!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat.
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While the grill heats, season the chicken breasts on both sides with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
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Place the seasoned chicken breasts onto the hot grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
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During the last 2 minutes of grilling, lay two slices of mozzarella cheese on each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to allow the cheese to melt.
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Once the cheese has melted and the chicken is fully cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
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To serve, place the grilled chicken on a platter. Top each piece with slices of fresh tomato and a few leaves of basil.
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Drizzle with balsamic glaze over the top for an extra flavor boost.
Note
- For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in balsamic vinegar and olive oil for 30 minutes before grilling.
- Using heirloom tomatoes can add a variety of colors and flavors to this dish.
- If you don’t have access to a grill, you can use a grill pan or broil the chicken in the oven.
- Feel free to add a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
