Caprese Grilled Chicken Delight

This Caprese grilled chicken brings together juicy chicken breasts with the fresh flavors of ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and basil to create a bright satisfying meal that never fails to impress. I love making this when I want something that feels celebratory but comes together in about half an hour.

When I first tried this at a small backyard dinner my family devoured every last bite and now it has become a go to summer favorite of ours.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: offer lean hearty protein and are easy to find. Look for organic or air chilled for extra juiciness.
• Olive oil: gives richness and helps the herbs adhere to the chicken. Choose extra virgin for best flavor.
• Dried Italian herbs: bring classic aromatics to the marinade. A mix of basil oregano or thyme works well and I sometimes crush them to release more oils.
• Garlic powder: adds savory depth and is less likely to burn on the grill than fresh garlic.
• Salt: is essential for seasoning and helps the chicken stay juicy.
• Black pepper: adds just a hint of kick and supports the other flavors.
• Cherry tomatoes: provide the signature burst of color and natural sweetness. I find summer tomatoes have the richest flavor.
• Fresh mozzarella: melts into creamy slices and gives the chicken that signature Caprese quality. Select mozzarella packed in brine for best texture.
• Fresh basil: brings crisp bright notes and a lovely aroma. Tear or slice just before serving to prevent bruising.
• Balsamic glaze: is optional but I like the touch of tangy sweetness for balance. Choose a high quality glaze or make your own with aged balsamic.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Grill:

Set your grill or grill pan to medium high heat. You want it hot enough to quickly sear the chicken without drying it out.

Season the Chicken:

Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the oil and spices stick. Rub each piece all over with olive oil then sprinkle with Italian herbs garlic powder salt and black pepper. Massage seasonings in evenly.

Grill the Chicken:

Place the chicken on the hot grill. Cook for six to eight minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit. Let the chicken develop nice grill marks for flavor.

Prepare the Tomatoes:

While the chicken is grilling halve the cherry tomatoes and toss them with a pinch of salt. This step draws out juices and enhances flavor.

Add the Mozzarella:

During the last two minutes of grilling top each chicken breast with mozzarella slices. Close the lid if using a gas grill to help the cheese melt gently over the chicken.

Serve the Chicken:

Carefully remove the chicken to a serving platter. Arrange the juicy tomatoes and torn basil leaves generously over each piece. If using drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze right before serving.

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The mozzarella is my favorite part of this dish. There is something magical about how it melts just enough to hug the warm chicken without losing its creamy character. My kids know the meal is special when they see that melted cheese and colorful tomatoes on their plates.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. I recommend reheating gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the cheese soft and the chicken juicy. For meal prep slice the chicken before storing and assemble with fresh basil just before eating.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor and to keep the dish extra juicy. If fresh mozzarella is unavailable swap in low moisture mozzarella but slice it thinly. For an herby twist fresh oregano or mint can stand in for the basil.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the grilled chicken over a bed of fresh arugula or spinach for a full salad style meal. I also enjoy it with roasted summer vegetables or a simply dressed quinoa salad. A light white wine or sparkling water with citrus rounds out the meal beautifully.

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Caprese and Italian Inspiration

This dish is inspired by the classic Italian Caprese salad which is all about using the freshest ingredients at their peak. The addition of grilled chicken turns it into a hearty main course while keeping those iconic flavors. We often make this when basil is thriving in pots on the patio and ripe tomatoes are everywhere.

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of mozzarella works best?

Fresh mozzarella, either sliced or torn, melts beautifully and enhances the classic Caprese flavor.

→ Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

Yes, a grill pan serves as a convenient alternative, allowing you to achieve those tasty grill marks indoors.

→ How do I know the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear.

→ What side dishes pair well?

Consider a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light zucchini noodle dish for a balanced meal.

→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free. Always check packaged ingredients for cross-contamination as needed.