Description
Grilled Chicken Caprese with Tomato, Mozzarella, and Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients:
For the Grilled Chicken:
2 chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
For the Toppings:
1 large tomato, sliced
8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Balsamic glaze, to drizzle
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Assemble the Dish:
Once the chicken is cooked, place it on a plate. Top each breast with a few slices of tomato and mozzarella.
Garnish and Serve:
Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with freshly chopped basil.
Enjoy:
This refreshing and flavorful chicken dish is perfect for a light, healthy dinner or lunch!
Let me know if you’d like more recipes!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch) for consistent cooking. Pat them completely dry with paper towels.
2. Season & Grill: Brush both sides of the chicken with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook, undisturbed, for 5-7 minutes.
3. Flip & Finish Cooking: Flip the chicken breasts. Grill for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
4. Assemble: On each rested chicken breast, layer slices of fresh mozzarella, followed by slices of tomato. The residual heat will slightly melt the cheese.
5. Final Touches: Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with freshly chopped basil. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish on a bed of fresh arugula or mixed greens tossed in a light lemon vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, pair it with grilled asparagus, garlic bread, or a side of orzo pasta. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the fresh flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
Pound chicken to even thickness, season, and grill until cooked through (165°F). Let it rest, then top with fresh mozzarella and tomato slices. Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of fresh basil.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish without a grill? Absolutely. Use a grill pan, cast-iron skillet, or bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
2. What can I use instead of balsamic glaze? You can reduce regular balsamic vinegar by simmering it until syrupy, or use a high-quality aged balsamic vinegar straight from the bottle.
3. How do I know when the chicken is done without a thermometer? Cut into the thickest part; the juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink.
4. Can I prepare the components ahead of time? You can slice the tomato and mozzarella ahead, but assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess.
5. What type of mozzarella is best? Fresh mozzarella (often sold in water) is ideal for its creamy texture and mild flavor. Pre-shredded mozzarella will not melt or taste the same.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately releases juices, making it dry. Always let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Using Cold Toppings: Taking mozzarella straight from the fridge prevents it from softening nicely on the warm chicken. Let it sit out for 15-20 minutes.
- Uneven Chicken: Not pounding the breasts leads to uneven cooking—the thin end dries out before the thick part is done.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breasts cook quickly. Use a meat thermometer to prevent tough, rubbery results.
Conclusion
Grilled Chicken Caprese transforms simple, high-quality ingredients into an elegant and satisfying meal in minutes. By mastering a few key techniques—like even pounding and proper resting—you can consistently create a restaurant-worthy dish that’s both impressive and effortless. Its perfect balance of savory, fresh, and tangy flavors makes it a timeless recipe you’ll return to again and again.