Grilled Caprese Chicken

This hearty Caprese Chicken has become my summer go-to for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests. The classic Italian flavors of fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil transform simple chicken breasts into something special that looks impressive but requires minimal effort.

I first created this recipe during a heat wave when I refused to turn on my oven but still wanted something more exciting than a salad. Now it's requested at every summer gathering I host, and friends always ask for the recipe.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: carefully pound them to even thickness for perfect cooking
• Italian seasoning: creates a foundation of flavor with minimal effort
• Fresh mozzarella: splurge on good quality buffalo mozzarella if possible
• Vine ripened tomatoes: local farmers market tomatoes make a huge difference in summer
• Fresh basil: the fragrant finishing touch that brings the Caprese elements together
• Aged balsamic or balsamic glaze: adds a sweet tangy finish that elevates the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Pound chicken breasts to even thickness between parchment paper using a rolling pin. This crucial step ensures each piece cooks evenly and remains juicy. Aim for just under 1 inch thickness for optimal results.

Season Generously:

Create a custom spice blend with Italian seasoning, salt, garlic powder, onion powder and black pepper. Brush each chicken breast with olive oil first so the seasonings adhere better. Season both sides generously for maximum flavor.

Master the Grill:

Heat your grill or grill pan until very hot before adding chicken. Cook for exactly 5-6 minutes per side, watching carefully for proper caramelization without burning. Use a thermometer to ensure you reach 155°F but not higher.

Add the Caprese Elements:

Top each chicken breast with two slices of fresh mozzarella while still on the grill. The residual heat will melt the cheese perfectly while bringing the chicken to its final temperature of 165°F in about 3 minutes.

Final Assembly:

Transfer to plates and immediately top with sliced tomatoes and fresh basil. The warm chicken and melted cheese will slightly warm the tomatoes and release the aromatic oils from the basil. Finish with a drizzle of aged balsamic just before serving.

Save

The fresh mozzarella is truly the star ingredient here. I once tried to save money using pre-shredded mozzarella and it was a completely different dish. The way real fresh mozzarella melts into creamy pools that mingle with the tomato juices creates a natural sauce that makes this dish special.

Temperature Control Matters

Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky because the line between undercooked and dry is thin. The key to this recipe is removing the chicken from heat at 155°F, then allowing it to reach 165°F while the cheese melts. This two-stage approach ensures food safety without sacrificing moisture. An instant read thermometer is absolutely essential for this recipe since you cannot test doneness by touch once the cheese is added.

Make It Your Own

This recipe welcomes variations based on what you have available. Try using cherry tomatoes halved instead of sliced tomatoes for a prettier presentation. If basil is scarce, substitute other fresh herbs like oregano or thyme. For a richer flavor profile, add a slice of prosciutto under the mozzarella before melting. The chicken can also be cut into smaller pieces and served over pasta with additional balsamic glaze for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Caprese Chicken pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement without competing. A peppery arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil adds a nice contrast to the rich chicken. During summer, serve alongside grilled vegetables like zucchini or eggplant that can cook on the same grill. For a heartier meal, a side of roasted potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the juices works wonderfully. Always serve with extra balsamic on the table for those who enjoy a stronger flavor.

Recipe FAQs

→ What's the best way to ensure the chicken stays juicy?

The key is not overcooking the chicken in the first grilling phase. Remove it from heat when it reaches 155°F, then allow it to reach the safe 165°F temperature while the cheese melts. Using a meat thermometer is essential since the traditional pressure test won't work with the melted cheese topping.

→ Can I prepare this dish without a grill?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for a grill or grill pan, you could also use a regular skillet to cook the chicken, then transfer to a broiler to melt the cheese. Just ensure you're monitoring internal temperature closely regardless of cooking method.

→ What's the difference between balsamic vinegar and balsamic glaze?

Balsamic vinegar is thinner and more acidic, while balsamic glaze (or reduction) is thicker and sweeter as it's been simmered down to concentrate the flavors. Either works in this dish, though the glaze provides a more dramatic presentation and slightly sweeter flavor profile.

→ What sides pair well with Caprese Chicken?

Since this dish has Italian influences, it pairs beautifully with garlic bread, pasta tossed in olive oil, or a simple green salad. For a lower-carb option, consider roasted vegetables, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice.

→ How do I properly pound chicken to even thickness?

Place the chicken breast between sheets of parchment paper (or plastic wrap) to prevent splattering. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound from the center outward until the entire breast is an even thickness of about 1 inch. This ensures even cooking and tenderness throughout.

→ Can I prepare components of this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can pound and season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep refrigerated. You can also slice the mozzarella and tomatoes a few hours before cooking. For best results, cook the chicken and melt the cheese just before serving, adding the fresh tomatoes and basil at the last minute.