There’s something undeniably joyful about sinking your fork into tender, sun-kissed chicken topped with layers of ripe tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. This Grilled Chicken Caprese is like a summer fête on a plate—each bite delivers a melody of bright, tangy tomato sweetness, milky cheese richness, and just enough char from the grill to keep things interesting. It’s the perfect way to celebrate long, warm evenings with friends and family, turning a simple backyard gathering into an Italian-inspired feast. Best of all, this dish comes together in a snap: just 15 minutes of prep, 15 minutes on the grill, and about five minutes to let everything settle into its full, glorious flavor.
I still remember the afternoon I first tried this recipe. The sun was dipping low, golden light spilled over the patio, and I brushed each chicken breast with olive oil, imagining how the basil would perfume the air. When those juicy, herb-kissed breasts met the sweet acidity of heirloom tomato slices, it felt like magic. And as the mozzarella began to melt ever so slightly under a gentle grill cover, I knew I had discovered a new favorite for both lunch and dinner. Clocking in at just 320 calories, this dish proves that healthy can also be downright indulgent—and it’s so beginner-friendly, you’ll be a Caprese champion in no time.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GRILLED CHICKEN CAPRESE
Before you fire up the grill, let’s get acquainted with the simple, fresh ingredients that make this recipe sing. Each component plays its part, whether it’s tenderizing the chicken, brightening the flavor, or adding that final pop of color.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Choose plump, uniform breasts for even cooking. They serve as the juicy canvas that soaks up Italian seasoning and develops those irresistible grill marks.
- Olive oil
A splash of quality extra-virgin oil keeps the chicken moist and helps seasonings adhere. It also adds a fruity, peppery note that complements the fresh mozzarella.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Simple but essential. Salt brings out natural flavors, while black pepper adds a warm, pungent kick that balances the sweetness of tomatoes and balsamic.
- Italian seasoning
This fragrant blend of herbs—often including oregano, basil, and thyme—lends a classic Italian flair and infuses the chicken with aromatic depth.
- Tomatoes
Opt for firm, ripe tomatoes so your slices hold their shape. Their juicy acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese and olive oil.
- Fresh mozzarella cheese
Creamy and mild, mozzarella provides a cool contrast to the hot grill. As it softens, it creates a silky layer that ties all the flavors together.
- Fresh basil leaves
Tear or chiffonade these vibrant green leaves just before serving for a burst of herbal brightness and a bold color accent.
- Balsamic glaze
A sweet-tangy drizzle that elevates every bite. The glossy glaze adds richness and a silky finish that seals the dish’s flavor profile.
HOW TO MAKE GRILLED CHICKEN CAPRESE
Let’s fire up the grill and walk through each step, turning those humble ingredients into an extraordinary meal. With a few simple techniques and a hot grill, you’ll have this dish on the table in no time.
1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Ensure your grill grates are clean and well-heated, reaching around 400°F. This temperature creates those signature grill marks and locks in juices.
2. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Use a basting brush to coat each piece evenly, then sprinkle on the seasonings. Pat gently so the spices adhere without falling off.
3. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6–7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Resist the urge to flip constantly. Let the chicken develop a crispy, golden surface before turning to ensure maximum flavor.
4. During the last few minutes of grilling, place slices of tomato and mozzarella on top of each chicken breast. Cover the grill to allow the cheese to melt slightly.
Layer the tomato rounds first, then follow with the mozzarella. Closing the lid traps heat, gently steaming the cheese into a gooey blanket.
5. Remove the chicken from the grill and transfer to a serving platter.
Let each breast rest for a few minutes so the juices redistribute—this keeps the meat tender and succulent.
6. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the chicken breasts.
Use a squeeze bottle or a spoon to create an even, decorative pattern that adds sweet-tangy balance.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Tuck whole or chiffonaded basil around each piece for a burst of herbal aroma and vibrant color.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GRILLED CHICKEN CAPRESE
Once your Grilled Chicken Caprese is perfectly cooked, it’s time to think about presentation and accompaniments. Highlight the dish’s classic Italian roots by choosing sides and serving styles that complement its vibrant flavors. With a little creativity, you can turn this simple entrée into a restaurant-worthy spread, whether you’re hosting a casual weeknight dinner or welcoming guests for a leisurely summer feast. Let’s explore four ways to showcase your Caprese creation and make every serving moment memorable.
- Pair with grilled vegetables
Char bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion alongside the chicken for a colorful, nutrient-packed plate. The smoky flavors mirror the chicken’s grill marks and add textural contrast.
- Serve on a rustic wooden board
Arrange the chicken breasts, extra tomato slices, and cheese rounds on a large board. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the entire spread, creating a communal, family-style presentation that’s both casual and charming.
- Accompany with freshly baked focaccia
Warm, herb-studded focaccia soaks up any leftover juices and glaze. Slice the bread into squares and serve on the side for a comforting, carb-friendly addition that’s guaranteed to disappear fast.
- Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers
For a touch of elegance, sprinkle tender microgreens or delicate edible blooms over each breast. This adds a gourmet flourish and enhances visual appeal—perfect for special occasions.
HOW TO STORE GRILLED CHICKEN CAPRESE
If you find yourself with leftovers (and it happens more often than you’d think!), proper storage is key to preserving that bright Caprese flavor and juicy texture. Cooling and packing each component the right way ensures you can enjoy this dish all week long without losing quality. Whether you plan to refrigerate for tomorrow’s lunch or freeze for a later date, these methods will keep your chicken, cheese, and tomatoes tasting their best.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container
Place cooled chicken breasts in a single layer, separating them with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days, then reheat gently to retain moisture.
- Store components separately
Keep sliced tomatoes and mozzarella in a different container from the chicken. This prevents sogginess and allows you to reassemble the dish just before serving, preserving freshness and texture.
- Use vacuum sealing
For longer refrigeration, vacuum-seal each portion. Removing air slows oxidation and flavor loss. Consume within 4–5 days for optimal taste.
- Freeze for extended shelf life
If you need to freeze, flash-freeze chicken breasts on a tray before transferring to freezer-safe bags. Label with the date and use within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat slowly with a light mist of water to prevent drying out.
CONCLUSION
This Grilled Chicken Caprese recipe is a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. From the moment you brush those chicken breasts with fragrant olive oil and Italian herbs to the final drizzle of glossy balsamic glaze, every step is designed to highlight vibrant summer flavors and effortless elegance. The combination of juicy, perfectly cooked chicken, garden-fresh tomatoes, melting mozzarella, and bright basil creates a dish that’s as beautiful on the plate as it is delightful on the palate. With just 15 minutes of prep, 15 minutes of cooking, and a quick rest, you can serve a healthy, satisfying meal that feels anything but basic—clocking in at only 320 calories per serving yet bursting with taste.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later reference or tuck it into your digital recipe collection. You can even find a FAQ below to answer common questions about grill temperature, ingredient substitutions, and flavor variations. If you give this Grilled Chicken Caprese a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Leave your comments, share your tweaks or tips, and let me know if you need any help perfecting those grill marks or balancing the flavors. Your feedback makes the kitchen feel like a warm, friendly gathering—and I can’t wait to chat about your delicious creations!
Grilled Chicken Caprese
Description
This Grilled Chicken Caprese combines succulent grilled chicken with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with rich balsamic glaze for an unforgettable dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
-
Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
-
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
-
During the last few minutes of grilling, place slices of tomato and mozzarella on top of each chicken breast. Cover the grill to allow the cheese to melt slightly.
-
Remove the chicken from the grill and transfer to a serving platter.
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Drizzle balsamic glaze over the chicken breasts.
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Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Note
- For a smoky flavor, try using a charcoal grill.
- Add a touch of garlic powder to the chicken for extra flavor.
- Experiment with heirloom tomatoes for a colorful presentation.
- A side of grilled vegetables pairs wonderfully with this dish.
- Balsamic reduction can be made at home by simmering balsamic vinegar with honey until thickened.
