Grilled Chicken Caprese

This Grilled Chicken Caprese recipe is the perfect dish for warm summer evenings or any occasion that calls for a delightful meal. The combination of juicy grilled chicken, fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil creates a vibrant flavor profile that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and makes for a stunning presentation, making it suitable for both casual dinners and entertaining guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella that make every bite delightful.
• Quick Preparation: With only 35 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Grill-Friendly: Cooking on the grill imparts a smoky flavor to the chicken while keeping it juicy and tender.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with grilled zucchini or over a bed of greens for a healthy meal that’s sure to impress.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is great for families and guests alike—everyone loves the classic Caprese combination!

Tools and Preparation

To create your Grilled Chicken Caprese, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can simplify your cooking process and enhance your results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Glass container (for marinating)
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Ensures even cooking and adds delicious smoky flavors to your chicken.
• Glass container: Ideal for marinating as it doesn’t react with acidic ingredients like vinegar.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing ingredients easier and safer.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping, reducing mess while prepping.

Ingredients

For this delicious Grilled Chicken Caprese recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (2-3, see notes)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (I used Grade A)
• 1/2 tsp sea salt

For the Caprese Salad Topping

• 1 pound of cherry tomatoes (halved equaling 4 cups)
• 6 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls (drained and halved)
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 8 large leaves of basil (1/4 ounce)
• Flaked finishing sea salt to taste
• Balsamic reduction or balsamic vinegar

For the Grilled Zucchini

• 2 pounds zucchini (8 ounces per person)

How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a glass container and add all marinade ingredients. Mix well to combine. Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least 2 hours.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

After marinating, preheat your grill over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Caprese Salad Topping

While the grill heats up:
* In a mixing bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and olive oil.

Step 4: Slice the Basil

Prepare the basil by stacking all leaves together:
1. Roll them up tightly.
2. Slice thinly to create a chiffonade.
3. Mix basil into the salad mixture and allow it to sit while you cook the chicken.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Once your grill reaches 400ºF:
1. Place marinated chicken on the grill.
2. Lower heat to medium; discard leftover marinade.
3. Grill for 8-10 minutes until chicken loosens easily from grill grates.
4. Flip and continue grilling another 8-10 minutes until fully cooked (no longer pink in center).

Step 6: Let It Rest & Serve

Remove chicken from grill; let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes before slicing. Serve topped with Caprese salad mixture:
1. Drizzle balsamic reduction over everything.
2. Sprinkle finishing sea salt to taste.

This Grilled Chicken Caprese will soon be a favorite at your dinner table!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Caprese

Grilled Chicken Caprese is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to please your guests or family. The fresh flavors of basil, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella complement the grilled chicken perfectly. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

As a Main Course

• Serve the grilled chicken with the Caprese topping as a stunning centerpiece for your dinner table.

In a Salad

• Slice the chicken and toss it with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella for a refreshing salad option.

On a Sandwich

• Layer sliced grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, and tomatoes between crusty bread for a delicious sandwich. Drizzle with balsamic reduction for extra flavor.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with grilled zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful and healthy side dish that enhances the meal.

As Meal Prep

• Divide the chicken and Caprese salad into meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Caprese

Getting your Grilled Chicken Caprese just right can elevate this dish to another level. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfection.

• Marinate Overnight: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. This allows the balsamic vinegar and olive oil to penetrate deeply into the meat.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is well-heated before placing the chicken on it. A hot grill helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and sears in moisture.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Checking the internal temperature ensures perfectly cooked chicken. Aim for 165ºF for safe consumption.
• Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling keeps it juicy. Let it sit for at least five minutes before slicing.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe cherry tomatoes and fresh basil for an authentic taste that enhances your dish significantly.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Caprese

When serving Grilled Chicken Caprese, pairing it with complementary side dishes can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter adds a crunchy texture that pairs well with the juicy chicken.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, parsley, and lemon dressing provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the cheese.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Season asparagus with olive oil and sea salt, then roast until tender. This adds vibrant color and nutrients to your plate.
4. Caprese Skewers: Alternate cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls on skewers drizzled with balsamic reduction for an easy appetizer or side.
5. Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous cooked in vegetable broth mixed with herbs makes for a wonderful accompaniment full of flavor.
6. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli drizzled with olive oil is both nutritious and complements the flavors of grilled chicken well.
7. Pasta Primavera: A light pasta tossed with seasonal vegetables dressed in olive oil makes an excellent side that pairs beautifully.
8. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette enhances freshness while balancing out the richness of your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Chicken Caprese, it’s easy to make small mistakes that can affect your dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavor. Always allow at least 2 hours for the flavors to soak in.
• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too much chicken on the grill can cause uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary to ensure each piece cooks properly.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Grilling on a cold grill can result in sticking and uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to medium-high before adding the chicken.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Not checking for doneness can lead to undercooked chicken. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or low-quality tomatoes and basil affects taste. Always opt for fresh, ripe produce for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Grilled Chicken Caprese in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Caprese

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Caprese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place chicken on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water, cover, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grilled Chicken Caprese?

Grilled Chicken Caprese is a delicious dish combining marinated grilled chicken with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.

Can I substitute ingredients in Grilled Chicken Caprese?

Yes! You can use different types of cheese or add additional vegetables like bell peppers or arugula for extra flavor.

How do I make a vegetarian version of Grilled Chicken Caprese?

For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with grilled eggplant or zucchini slices prepared similarly with seasoning.

How do I store leftovers from Grilled Chicken Caprese?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Caprese is not only vibrant and full of flavor but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs. This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners—give it a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Grilled Chicken Caprese

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Grilled Chicken Caprese is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for summer evenings or any occasion that calls for an easy yet impressive meal. This recipe combines juicy marinated grilled chicken with ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, all drizzled with a balsamic reduction. The result is a delightful explosion of flavors that will please everyone at your table. Not only is it simple to prepare in just 35 minutes, but it also makes for an eye-catching presentation suitable for both casual dinners and entertaining guests. Serve it alongside grilled zucchini or on a bed of greens for a nutritious meal that highlights fresh ingredients.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 pound cherry tomatoes
• 6 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls
• 8 large basil leaves
• Flaked finishing sea salt

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Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken: Combine chicken, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and sea salt in a glass container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
3. Prepare the Caprese topping by mixing halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and olive oil in a bowl; add chiffonaded basil.
4. Grill the marinated chicken for 8-10 minutes per side until fully cooked. Allow to rest before slicing.
5. Serve topped with the Caprese mixture and a drizzle of balsamic reduction.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 90mg