Caprese Grilled Chicken

This vibrant Caprese Grilled Chicken brings together juicy grilled chicken breasts, ripe cherry tomatoes, silky mozzarella, and fresh basil for an easy dinner packed with Italian flavor and summer brightness. It is just the thing when you crave something hearty yet fresh, and feels special enough for guests but simple enough for a busy weeknight.

I started making this when my basil plant exploded in the summer and I needed a way to use up an armful fast The colors and flavors are always a hit with my family and nobody misses the bread

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Provide a lean blank canvas that soaks up flavor Choose breasts that are even in size for most even grilling
• Olive oil: Ensures moist juicy chicken and golden edges Use extra virgin for best taste
• Dried Italian herbs: Offer classic savory notes or use a custom blend from your spice drawer
• Garlic powder: Gives subtle aromatic punch and never burns like fresh garlic on the grill
• Salt: Is key for drawing out moisture and seasoning the chicken inside and out Choose fine sea salt if possible
• Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and rounds out the flavor
• Cherry tomatoes: Bring a pop of sweetness and juiciness Look for firm ripe tomatoes with shiny skins
• Fresh mozzarella: Melts just enough to turn creamy and rich Opt for the kind packed in water if you can
• Fresh basil: Brings unmistakable brightness and aroma Tear right before serving for max flavor
• Balsamic glaze: Is optional but a few drops add glossy tang and sweetness Use a good quality aged bottle if you can find one

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Grill:

Preheat your grill to medium high heat aiming for a surface temperature around four hundred degrees Fahrenheit for those classic grill marks and quick cooking

Season the Chicken:

Pat the chicken dry so the seasoning adheres Rub each side well with olive oil then sprinkle on the herbs garlic powder salt and black pepper making sure every bit is coated evenly

Grill the Chicken:

Place chicken on the grill and cook for six to eight minutes per side turning only once This keeps the juices inside and gives you that perfect golden crust Chicken is done when it feels firm and a thermometer reads one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit

Prep the Toppings:

While chicken cooks cut the cherry tomatoes in half and sprinkle with a tiny bit of salt This keeps them juicy and sweet

Add Mozzarella:

In the last two minutes of grilling lay slices of mozzarella over each piece of chicken Close the grill lid and let the cheese soften and just begin to melt

Assemble and Finish:

Remove chicken onto a platter Top each piece generously with the salted cherry tomatoes and sprinkle with torn basil leaves You can drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra glossy finish

Serve:

Serve right away while the mozzarella is soft and the tomatoes are still bright

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Some of my happiest memories come from picking basil with my kids in the backyard before we make this for dinner The way that sweet basil perfume fills up the whole kitchen instantly makes me feel like summer has arrived Even my pickiest eater loves how the cheese gets gooey on the hot chicken

Storage Tips

Let any leftovers cool completely before storing Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days Reheat gently in the microwave or a covered skillet so the chicken does not dry out The assembled dish does not freeze well because the tomatoes and cheese release moisture but grilled chicken alone keeps well in the freezer for up to two months

Ingredient substitutions

If you like more flavor swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs which stay extra juicy You can use shredded mozzarella but slices give a more elegant finish If you are out of balsamic glaze try a quick drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar Arugula or baby spinach is a nice addition for extra greens and a peppery kick

Serving suggestions

Pile the Caprese chicken over a fresh green salad or serve alongside roasted potatoes for a heartier meal For a big gathering slice up the chicken and set up a topping bar with tomatoes basil extra cheese and different glazes It pairs beautifully with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon

Cultural and historical context

This dish takes its name and flavors from the classic Italian Caprese salad which is all about fresh mozzarella tomatoes and basil inspired by the colors of the Italian flag It is a summer staple along the Amalfi coast where ingredients are at their peak By adding grilled chicken you get the same lively flavors in a satisfying main dish

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Common Questions

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well and offer extra juiciness. Adjust grilling time as needed for thickness.

→ How do I keep chicken moist on the grill?

Use an olive oil rub and avoid overcooking. Grill until internal temperature reaches 165°F for juicy results.

→ Is it necessary to use balsamic glaze?

No, it's optional. The glaze adds sweetness and tang but the dish is flavorful without it.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

The chicken can be grilled in advance and gently reheated. Add toppings just before serving for best texture.

→ Is this meal suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, this dish is naturally low in carbohydrates and gluten-free. Always check packaged ingredients to be sure.