Easy Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella Recipe

Discover a quick and tasty Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella recipe perfect for summer dinners, bursting with fresh flavors and easy prep! This delightful dish combines juicy grilled chicken breasts topped with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, creamy mozzarella, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s a simple, mouthwatering way to celebrate classic Italian flavors right at home, making every mealtime feel like a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: Loads of fresh ingredients make each bite vibrant and satisfying without heavy sauces.
• Quick and Easy Prep: Perfect for busy weeknights or casual summer gatherings, ready in under 30 minutes.
• Healthy and Balanced: High in protein with fresh veggies, this recipe nourishes your body and delights your taste buds.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Works great for family dinners, meal prep, or even a stylish weekend cookout.
• Low Fuss, Big Impact: Minimal ingredients but maximum wow factor on the plate and at the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color, making the dish as beautiful as it is delicious.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for quick grilling and tender, juicy results.
• Fresh mozzarella: Creamy and mild, it melts perfectly over hot chicken for a luscious finish.
• Ripe tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, they add a refreshing burst of color and flavor.
• Fresh basil leaves: Aromatic and peppery, basil brings that signature Caprese brightness.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and prevents the chicken from sticking to the grill.
• Balsamic glaze: Sweet and tangy, it ties all the ingredients together for a perfect balance.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
• Garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth without overpowering the fresh ingredients.

Variations for Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella

Feel free to get creative adapting this recipe to your pantry, dietary needs, or taste preferences. It’s an easy base to tweak while keeping its beloved character.

• Swap the chicken: Try grilled turkey breasts or even portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Use different cheeses: Fresh burrata or sliced provolone add new creaminess and flavors.
• Add a spicy kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or use a peppery olive oil for heat.
• Change the herbs: Substitute basil with fresh oregano or thyme for a different herbal note.
• Make it a salad: Serve the grilled chicken slices over mixed greens with all Caprese toppings for a fresh salad.

How to Make Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry to ensure even grilling. Lightly brush them with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for that perfect base flavor.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high, ensuring it is hot enough to sear the chicken and create those beautiful grill marks without burning.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Place the chicken on the grill, cooking about 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Aim for internal temperature around 165°F for safe and juicy chicken.

Step 4: Add Mozzarella and Tomatoes

Once the chicken is almost done, top each piece with a thick slice of fresh mozzarella and a couple of tomato slices. Close the grill lid and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese softens and slightly melts.

Step 5: Assemble with Basil and Balsamic Glaze

Remove chicken from the grill and top with fresh basil leaves. Drizzle balsamic glaze over everything for that classic Caprese finishing touch. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella

• Use room temperature chicken: Letting it sit out 20 minutes before grilling helps it cook evenly.
• Don’t skip the olive oil: It helps prevent sticking and adds a subtle fruity flavor.
• Slice tomatoes thick: Thick slices hold up better on the chicken and balance the textures.
• Fresh mozzarella only: Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as fresh mozzarella melts better and provides creaminess.
• Rest the chicken: Allow cooked chicken to rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices and keep it tender.
• Use a clean grill grate: Ensures beautiful sear marks and prevents food from sticking or tearing.

How to Serve Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella

Garnishes

Top with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for freshness, along with an additional drizzle of balsamic glaze to amplify flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair with simple sides like garlic roasted asparagus, quinoa salad, or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices and balsamic glaze.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve sliced on a platter garnished with heirloom tomatoes and basil sprigs for a stunning centerpiece, or place the chicken over a bed of lightly dressed arugula for a fresh, elegant meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any uneaten Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh because the fresh tomatoes and basil don’t freeze well, but cooked chicken alone can be frozen for up to 2 months and reheated later.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet or the oven to preserve tender texture, and add a fresh slice of mozzarella and basil after warming to refresh the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor, but adjust grilling time to ensure they cook through evenly.

Is fresh mozzarella necessary for this recipe?

Fresh mozzarella is ideal because of its creamy texture and mild flavor that melts beautifully, but you can substitute with sliced provolone or fresh burrata for a similar effect.

How do I make the balsamic glaze at home?

Simply simmer balsamic vinegar over low heat until it reduces to a thick, syrupy consistency—about 10-15 minutes—adding a bit of honey or brown sugar if you like it sweeter.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Skip the mozzarella or swap it for a dairy-free cheese alternative, and the dish will still shine with fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze.

What’s the best way to keep the chicken moist?

Don’t overcook the chicken and allow it to rest after grilling; these steps lock in the juices for tender, flavorful bites every time.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that feels like a celebration of fresh, simple ingredients. Easy to prep yet elegant enough for any meal, it’s a go-to for summer dinners, weeknight favorites, or any time you crave a burst of Italian sunshine on your plate. Give it a try and enjoy the tasty magic that happens when grilled chicken meets vibrant Caprese flavors!

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