If you’re in the mood for a meal that’s bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors yet incredibly easy to prepare, this Caprese Chicken Recipe is an absolute winner. Juicy grilled chicken breasts topped with melting fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a tangy balsamic drizzle come together in a dish that’s both satisfying and elegant. Perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe brings the best of classic Italian Caprese salad and hearty chicken into one unforgettable plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Caprese Chicken Recipe plays a vital role in balancing taste, texture, and color. From tender chicken seasoned just right to the fresh brightness of basil and tomatoes, everything works together seamlessly to create a mouthwatering dish.
- Chicken breasts (4, 5-7 oz each): Pounding them to even thickness ensures quick, uniform cooking and juicy results.
- Italian seasoning (2 teaspoons): A fragrant blend that adds herbal depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Sea or kosher salt (2 teaspoons): Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors in the dish.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Brings subtle warmth and complexity to the seasoning mix.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a hint of sweetness that balances the seasoning perfectly.
- Cracked black pepper (1 teaspoon): For a gentle kick that awakens the palate.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps to lock in moisture and keeps the chicken from sticking during grilling.
- Fresh mozzarella (8 oz, sliced): Melts beautifully over the chicken, adding creamy richness.
- Vine-ripened tomatoes (2, sliced into ½ inch rounds): Provide juicy freshness and bright color contrast.
- Fresh basil leaves (to taste): The aromatic herb that ties all the flavors together.
- Aged balsamic or balsamic glaze (to taste): Offers sweet-tart brightness and a glossy finish.
How to Make Caprese Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by pounding each chicken breast to a uniform thickness of just under one inch. This simple step ensures even cooking so every bite is tender and juicy, preventing any dry spots.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Next, mix together Italian seasoning, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and cracked black pepper. Brush the chicken breasts generously with olive oil, then sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over each piece. This seasoning combo infuses the chicken with irresistible flavors that perfectly complement the fresh toppings.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken on a hot grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches about 155°F. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked but not overdone. The grill marks add a lovely smoky flavor and an appealing look.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
Once the chicken is nearly cooked, top each breast with two slices of fresh mozzarella. Close the grill lid and let the cheese melt as the chicken finishes cooking until it reaches a safe 165°F internal temperature. This melting step creates that gooey, cheesy highlight that makes the Caprese Chicken Recipe so irresistible.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Transfer the chicken breasts to a serving platter. Layer with the fresh tomato slices and scatter torn basil leaves on top. Finish with a sprinkle of salt and cracked black pepper, then drizzle aged balsamic vinegar or glaze over the entire dish. This final touch beautifully balances the rich cheese and savory chicken with a pop of acidity and sweetness.
How to Serve Caprese Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze not only elevate the flavors but also add vibrant color that makes your plate pop. For an elegant touch, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the tomatoes can boost their natural sweetness and add a delicate crunch.
Side Dishes
This Caprese Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with light sides like a crisp green salad, garlic roasted vegetables, or buttery couscous. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes or a simple pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs work beautifully to balance the richness in the chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, serve the chicken over a bed of arugula or baby spinach, letting the natural juices mingle with the greens. You can also stack the chicken with alternating slices of tomato and mozzarella in a layered tower, then garnish with basil and a balsamic drizzle to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this delicious Caprese Chicken Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping the basil and balsamic separate until serving helps preserve their freshness and vibrancy.
Freezing
While fresh is best for this dish, you can freeze the cooked chicken breasts without the fresh toppings for up to two months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. Remember to add fresh tomato, basil, and balsamic after reheating for best flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the cheese from becoming rubbery; add fresh mozzarella and toppings after reheating to maintain that fresh taste.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in the Caprese Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and can add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is it possible to make this recipe without a grill?
Yes, you can cook the chicken on a stovetop grill pan or in a regular skillet. Sear the chicken on medium-high heat, then cover and cook until done. Finish under a broiler with the mozzarella on top to melt the cheese.
What kind of balsamic should I use for the best flavor?
An aged balsamic vinegar or a balsamic glaze works best for a sweet, syrupy finish. They enhance the dish by adding a rich tang without overwhelming the fresh Caprese ingredients.
How can I prevent the chicken from drying out on the grill?
Pounding the chicken to an even thickness and not overcooking it are key. Cooking until just about 155°F before topping with cheese and finishing to 165°F helps keep it juicy and tender.
Can this Caprese Chicken Recipe be made ahead for a dinner party?
You can prep and season the chicken a few hours in advance, but it’s best to grill and assemble just before serving to preserve the freshness of the tomatoes and basil, as well as the melty texture of the mozzarella.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so satisfying about combining juicy grilled chicken with the freshest Caprese flavors in one dish. This Caprese Chicken Recipe delivers a wonderful balance of textures and tastes that’s sure to become a household favorite. Give it a try – once you do, it might just become your go-to dinner whenever you want to impress without the fuss.
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Caprese Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Caprese Chicken recipe combines juicy grilled chicken breasts with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, finished with a drizzle of aged balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick, flavorful, and healthy 25-minute meal that brings the classic Italian Caprese salad flavors to a protein-packed dish.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts (5–7 oz each), pounded to even thickness
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons sea or kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Toppings
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into 8 even pieces
- 2 vine-ripened tomatoes, sliced into ½-inch slices
- Fresh basil leaves, to taste
- Aged balsamic or balsamic glaze, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness of just under 1 inch to ensure even cooking.
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, combine Italian seasoning, sea or kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and cracked black pepper. Brush each chicken breast with olive oil then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
- Grill the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a hot preheated grill. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C), indicating it’s nearly cooked through.
- Add toppings: Top each chicken breast with slices of fresh mozzarella. Continue grilling until the cheese melts and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Assemble the dish: Transfer the grilled chicken to a serving platter. Top each breast with tomato slices and fresh basil leaves. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper. Finish by drizzling aged balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze over the top for a tangy-sweet flavor boost.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- If you don’t have a grill, this recipe can be adapted for stovetop by cooking chicken in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly in olive oil and seasoning before grilling.
- Fresh mozzarella can be replaced with burrata for a creamier texture if desired.
- Balsamic glaze adds a thicker, sweeter touch compared to regular aged balsamic vinegar.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
