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Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella

Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella

Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella is a vibrant and hearty dish that combines juicy grilled chicken breasts with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic basil. Inspired by the classic Caprese salad, this recipe offers a bold flavor harmony perfect for a healthy, elegant, and refreshing meal ideal for summer or any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Caprese Topping

  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced (preferably vine-ripened or heirloom)
  • Fresh basil leaves, a handful

Finishing Touch

  • Balsamic glaze (optional), for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by gently pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness so they cook uniformly. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil to enhance flavor and prevent sticking.
  2. Grill the Chicken: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has those beautiful grill marks. Remove from heat and let rest briefly.
  3. Assemble the Caprese Topping: Slice fresh mozzarella and tomatoes into even pieces. Layer them on top of each chicken breast, alternating slices, and then add fresh basil leaves for a vibrant, herbal touch.
  4. Melt the Cheese: Place the chicken back on the grill or under a broiler for about 2 minutes to gently melt the mozzarella until it’s warm and soft without losing its shape.
  5. Finish with Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the assembled chicken just before serving to introduce a sweet, tangy contrast that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Notes

  • Don’t skip resting: Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling ensures it stays juicy and tender.
  • Use room temperature ingredients: Mozzarella and tomatoes melt and flavor the dish best when not straight from the fridge.
  • Grill with indirect heat: If your grill is very hot, use indirect heat to finish melting cheese without burning the chicken.
  • Brush with oil: Lightly oil both the grill grates and chicken to prevent sticking and get those perfect grill marks.
  • Fresh basil last: Add basil right before serving to preserve its bright color and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, Caprese chicken, mozzarella chicken, summer chicken recipe, healthy chicken, low carb chicken