Grilled Chicken Caprese

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dinner that screams summertime, you’ve come to the right place! This Grilled Chicken Caprese is a delightful blend of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. With juicy, balsamic-marinated chicken, fresh cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s a one-pan meal that feels special without taking all day to prepare.

What makes this recipe so beloved in my kitchen is how it brings together fresh ingredients and simple preparation. Plus, it pairs beautifully with grilled zucchini for some extra veggies! Trust me; once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh & Flavorful: The combination of balsamic chicken with Caprese salad toppings offers bright and vibrant flavors.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the tasty ingredients in this dish.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Marinade the chicken in advance for a stress-free dinner prep.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are. Many are pantry staples, making this recipe both convenient and delicious!

For the 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 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)

For Serving

• Flaked Maldon finishing sea salt to taste
• Balsamic reduction or balsamic vinegar

For the Grilled Zucchini

• 2 pounds zucchini (8 ounces per person), sliced off both ends and split in half down the middle

Variations

This Grilled Chicken Caprese recipe is flexible and can be tweaked to fit your taste!

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey breast or grilled tofu instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some grilled bell peppers or asparagus for added color and nutrients.
• Change the cheese: If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, feta or goat cheese can offer a delightful twist!
• Herb alternatives: Fresh mint or parsley can be used instead of basil if you prefer their flavors.

How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a glass container and add all your marinade ingredients. Mix everything well to ensure each piece is coated. Cover it up and refrigerate overnight or at least for 2 hours. Marinating allows the flavors to penetrate deep into the chicken for an incredibly tasty result!

Step 2: Prepare Your Grill

After marinating, preheat your grill over medium-high heat. It’s essential that your grill reaches 400ºF before adding the chicken; this helps create those beautiful grill marks while locking in juices.

Step 3: Make the Caprese Salad Topping

While the grill heats up, mix together your halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and a tablespoon of olive oil in a bowl. This salad topping adds freshness to your dish.

Step 4: Slice the Basil

Stack all your basil leaves together then roll them up like a cigar before slicing them thinly (this technique is called chiffonade!). Mixing these fragrant ribbons into your salad elevates its flavor profile even more.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Once your grill is hot, place the marinated chicken on it and reduce the heat to medium. Discard any leftover marinade. Grill for about 8-10 minutes until it’s easy to turn over before cooking for another 8-10 minutes until no longer pink in the center.

Step 6: Let it Rest & Serve

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it sit on a cutting board for a couple of minutes. Slice it up and serve topped with your Caprese salad mixture. Drizzle with balsamic reduction and sprinkle finishing sea salt on top for that extra touch! Enjoy every bite of this delightful meal!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Chicken Caprese

Creating the perfect Grilled Chicken Caprese can be a breeze with just a few extra tips!

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight not only enhances its flavor but also ensures it remains juicy and tender when grilled.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is properly preheated before cooking. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and seals in the juices, preventing the chicken from drying out.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165ºF for safe consumption, giving you peace of mind.
• Let It Rest: Once grilled, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This step helps redistribute the juices, resulting in a more succulent bite.
• Experiment with Fresh Herbs: Don’t hesitate to add other fresh herbs like oregano or parsley into your Caprese salad. They bring additional layers of flavor that complement the dish beautifully.

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Caprese

Presenting your Grilled Chicken Caprese in an appealing way can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A few whole basil leaves on top add a pop of color and reinforce that fresh aroma.
• Balsamic Drizzle: A light drizzle of balsamic reduction over the chicken adds elegance and enhances the flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, these potatoes make for a hearty side that pairs beautifully with the lightness of the Caprese.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, and lemon vinaigrette complements this Italian dish while providing extra nutrients.
• Grilled Asparagus: Simply seasoned and grilled until tender-crisp, asparagus adds vibrant color and a delightful crunch to your meal.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice keeps it light and fresh while balancing out the richness of the cheese and chicken.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Grilled Chicken Caprese will not only taste amazing but look fantastic on your dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Chicken Caprese recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your delicious dish fresh and flavorful.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Keep the Caprese salad components separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the grilled chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat gently in the oven at 350ºF for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat on the grill or stovetop pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Grilled Chicken Caprese!

Can I use different types of cheese for Grilled Chicken Caprese?

Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like burrata or even vegan cheese alternatives if you prefer.

How do I ensure my chicken stays juicy when making Grilled Chicken Caprese?

Marinating the chicken is key! Allowing it to soak in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and maple syrup not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist during grilling.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! This Grilled Chicken Caprese is great for meal prep. You can grill the chicken and prepare the salad components ahead of time for quick assembly later.

What should I serve with Grilled Chicken Caprese?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of grilled vegetables, a fresh green salad, or even some crusty bread to soak up all those delicious flavors!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Grilled Chicken Caprese as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients that come together beautifully. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own. Happy cooking!