Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Recipe

Who knew a few simple ingredients could bring such mouthwatering magic to life? Let me tell you, this Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese is about to become your summer grilling go-to—it’s like falling in love at first bite!

I love how this Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese combines fresh, vibrant flavors with minimum effort. The juicy chicken breasts, perfectly seasoned with garlic powder and Italian seasoning, pair beautifully with sweet cherry tomatoes and creamy mozzarella.

A drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of basil add an irresistible touch, turning this into a well-rounded, nutritious meal I think you will enjoy.

Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Recipe Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts: High in protein, low in fat, lean meat option.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Rich in vitamin C, adds freshness and sweetness.
• Fresh Mozzarella: Source of calcium, creamy texture, mild flavor.
• Balsamic Glaze: Adds sweet-tangy flavor, enhances dish with acidity.
• Olive Oil: Healthy monounsaturated fats, adds subtle richness.
• Garlic Powder: Adds savory depth, enhances umami flavor profile.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Aromatic herb, provides peppery and sweet note.

Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

How to Make this Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Recipe

1. Set your grill to preheat at a heat level of medium to high.

2. Sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried Italian seasoning on both sides.

3. 1 tablespoon olive oil, for brushing chicken.

4. Put the chicken on the grill and cook it for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until it is fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

5. As the chicken grills, I mix together the cherry tomatoes, a tablespoon of olive oil, and a tiny amount of salt in a bowl. I give it a gentle toss and leave it alone for a moment.

6. When the chicken has finished cooking, take it off the grill and allow it to rest for several minutes.

7. Put slices of fresh mozzarella on top of each chicken breast.

8. Place the halved cherry tomatoes atop the mozzarella.

9. Evenly drizzle the balsamic glaze over the chicken and toppings.

10. Add the fresh basil that has been chopped fine as a topping and serve directly. Enjoy your Easy Chicken Caprese off the grill!

Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Grill
2. Grill tongs
3. Measuring spoons
4. Instant-read thermometer
5. Mixing bowl
6. Spoon (for mixing)
7. Knife (for slicing mozzarella and chopping basil)
8. Cutting board

FAQ

• Q: Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?A: Indeed, but you will have to account for longer cooking time. Cooking time will need to be adjusted because grilling chicken with bones takes longer than grilling boneless chicken.
• Q: Is there a substitute for balsamic glaze?A: One can use a balsamic reduction or a homemade glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar with some sugar until it thickens.
• Q: Can I prepare this recipe on a stovetop if I don’t have a grill?A: For sure! You can prepare the chicken in a grill pan or a standard skillet over medium-high heat.
• Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?A: The internal temperature of the chicken must be 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
• Q: Can other cheeses be used instead of mozzarella?A: Yes, cheeses like fontina or provolone can be used, though mozzarella best complements the Caprese flavors.
• Q: How can I make this recipe more flavorful?A: For a few hours, the chicken should sit in a mixture of olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a bit of lemon juice. Then it is ready to grill.
• Q: Is there a recommended side dish to serve with this?A straightforward salad of greens and a side of garlic bread complement Grilled Chicken Caprese nicely.

Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Recipe Substitutions and Variations

You can use burrata cheese instead of fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture.
In the absence of balsamic glaze, create a substitute by mixing balsamic vinegar with a small amount of honey or brown sugar to approximate the sweetness of balsamic glaze.
To achieve a unique taste, substitute sun-dried tomatoes for cherry tomatoes.
Avocado oil or grape seed oil may be used instead of olive oil. They provide a milder taste.
If you like fresh garlic more than garlic powder, use 2-3 cloves of minced fresh garlic.

Pro Tips

1. Marinate for Extra Flavor Before grilling, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor. You can even add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the marinade.

2. Use a Meat Thermometer To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This helps avoid overcooking and keeps the chicken juicy.

3. Preheat the Grill Properly Make sure your grill is fully preheated before adding the chicken. This helps achieve perfect grill marks and prevents the chicken from sticking to the grill.

4. Rest the Chicken Allow the grilled chicken breasts to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful.

5. Customize the Balsamic Glaze If you have time, make your own balsamic reduction by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens. You can add a bit of honey or brown sugar for a sweeter finish.