Why Make This Recipe
Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella is a delightful dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of chicken, fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The combination of grilled chicken with fresh ingredients makes it both healthy and satisfying. Plus, the drizzle of balsamic glaze ties everything together beautifully, making each bite a taste of summer.
How to Make Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts, evenly sized
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 2-3 ripe vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Directions:
- Lightly pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure uniform grilling. Marinate them with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper for 15-20 minutes to infuse deep flavors.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), achieving beautiful grill marks while keeping the meat juicy.
- Once the chicken is cooked, top each breast with slices of fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes. Close the grill lid for 2-3 minutes to slightly melt the cheese and warm the tomatoes.
- Remove the chicken from the grill, scatter fresh basil leaves over the top, and finish by drizzling with balsamic glaze to enhance the iconic Caprese flavor.
How to Serve Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella
Serve your Grilled Caprese Chicken with a side of mixed greens or grilled vegetables for a complete meal. It also goes well with crusty bread or a light pasta salad. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors will impress your guests and family alike.
How to Store Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella
If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or on the grill for a few minutes until heated through. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the chicken rubbery.
Tips to Make Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Look for ripe tomatoes and high-quality mozzarella.
- Don’t skip the marinating step; it adds a lot of flavor to the chicken.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can also make this recipe using a grill pan on the stove or boiling the chicken breasts and then using a broiler to melt the cheese.
Variation
Feel free to customize your Grilled Caprese Chicken by adding other toppings like arugula, sun-dried tomatoes, or even pesto for added flavor. You can also try different cheeses, such as burrata or feta, for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use skin-on chicken breasts?
Yes, skin-on chicken breasts can be used, but they will require a bit more cooking time. Make sure the skin is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it’s great for meal prepping! Cook several chicken breasts and pack them with your favorite sides for easy lunches throughout the week.
3. Can I make this without a grill?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken in a skillet or bake it in the oven. Just ensure that you still achieve that juicy finish and melted cheese.