Description
This Grilled Chicken Caprese is a fresh and flavorful dish combining juicy grilled chicken breasts topped with a vibrant mix of cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with a sweet balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick and healthy 25-minute meal that brings the classic Caprese salad to a satisfying protein-packed entrée.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional, for extra zest)
Caprese Topping
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella (bocconcini or mozzarella balls, sliced)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar reduced to syrup)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano. For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before seasoning.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
- Prepare the Caprese topping: While the chicken grills, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced fresh mozzarella, and torn or chopped basil leaves in a bowl. Lightly season with salt and pepper and toss gently to mix the flavors.
- Assemble the dish: Once the chicken is grilled, top each breast generously with the Caprese mixture. Drizzle each portion with the balsamic glaze to add a tangy sweetness that complements the fresh ingredients.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a main course, optionally alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp, light salad to complete the meal. Enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors of this classic Caprese-inspired grilled chicken recipe.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- For a sweeter balsamic glaze, reduce balsamic vinegar over low heat until thickened if you don’t have pre-made glaze.
- Fresh mozzarella can be substituted with burrata for a creamier texture.
- Adding lemon juice before grilling adds a subtle brightness to the chicken flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
- This dish pairs well with a side of grilled vegetables, a simple green salad, or crusty bread.
