Caprese-Style Grilled Chicken | YumAndJoy

Caprese-Style Grilled Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Caprese-style grilled chicken takes a classic Italian-inspired combination and transforms it into a flavorful, healthy meal. Juicy grilled chicken is topped with creamy fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of homemade balsamic reduction. It’s easy to make, packed with fresh ingredients, and perfect for a light yet satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic powder
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper

For the Toppings

  • Fresh mozzarella (sliced)
  • Tomatoes (sliced, Roma or heirloom)
  • Fresh basil leaves

For the Balsamic Reduction

  • Balsamic vinegar
  • Honey (or brown sugar)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken

  1. Preheat Grill: Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
  2. Season the Chicken: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts, then season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Grill: Cook chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Make the Balsamic Reduction

  1. Simmer the Vinegar: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and reduces by half. Remove from heat.

Assemble the Caprese Chicken

  1. Add Mozzarella & Tomatoes: Once the chicken is cooked, top each piece with a slice of fresh mozzarella and tomato. Cover the grill for 1-2 minutes until the cheese slightly melts.
  2. Garnish & Drizzle: Remove from heat, top with fresh basil leaves, and drizzle with the balsamic reduction.

Serve & Enjoy

  1. Plate & Serve: Serve immediately with a side of roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

  • Oven-Baked Option: Bake the seasoned chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, then top with mozzarella and tomatoes during the last 5 minutes.
  • Stuffed Caprese Chicken: Slice a pocket into each chicken breast and stuff with mozzarella, tomato, and basil before grilling.
  • Pesto Twist: Spread pesto on the grilled chicken before adding the toppings for extra flavor.
  • Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning or drizzle with spicy balsamic glaze.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.
  • Freezing: Freeze grilled chicken (without toppings) for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless thighs work great and stay extra juicy.

What’s the best mozzarella to use?

Fresh mozzarella (like buffalo or whole-milk) melts beautifully and has the best flavor.

How can I make the balsamic reduction faster?

Increase the heat slightly but stir frequently to prevent burning.

Can I make this without a grill?

Yes! Use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake in the oven.

What sides pair well with Caprese chicken?

Try roasted asparagus, garlic bread, quinoa, or a simple arugula salad.

How do I keep chicken from drying out?

Don’t overcook—use a meat thermometer and remove when it reaches 165°F.

Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of sliced?

Yes! Halved cherry tomatoes work just as well and add extra sweetness.

What can I substitute for balsamic reduction?

Use a drizzle of balsamic glaze from the store or a mix of olive oil and lemon juice.

Can I prep this meal ahead?

Yes! Marinate the chicken in olive oil and seasoning ahead of time, then grill when ready.

How do I make this dish keto-friendly?

It’s already keto-friendly! Just ensure your balsamic reduction is sugar-free.

Conclusion

Caprese-style grilled chicken is an easy yet elegant dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, this dish brings together juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, and tangy balsamic glaze for a meal that’s both simple and impressive. Try different variations, pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy this Italian-inspired favorite anytime!

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Caprese-Style Grilled Chicken

Caprese-Style Grilled Chicken


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  • Author: asma
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Caprese-Style Grilled Chicken is a fresh and flavorful twist on classic Caprese salad! Juicy grilled chicken is topped with melted mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a homemade balsamic reduction. A simple yet impressive meal perfect for summer grilling or weeknight dinners!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

For the Caprese Topping:

  • 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
  • 2 large tomatoes, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

For the Balsamic Reduction:

  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Rub over the chicken breasts.
  2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400°F). Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
  3. Make the Balsamic Reduction: While the chicken cooks, heat balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
  4. Add the Caprese Toppings: In the last 2 minutes of grilling, top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella and let it melt. Remove from the grill and top with tomato slices and fresh basil leaves.
  5. Drizzle & Serve: Drizzle the balsamic reduction over the chicken and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Swap fresh mozzarella for burrata for extra creaminess.
  • Serve with a side of grilled vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Grilled
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
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