If you’re craving something fresh, vibrant, and utterly delicious, this Caprese Chicken Recipe is going to become your new favorite dinner go-to. It brilliantly combines tender grilled chicken breasts with the timeless flavors of a classic Caprese salad—think creamy mozzarella, juicy ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and that irresistible balsamic drizzle. Every element plays off each other beautifully, making it not just a meal but an experience that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe brings together simplicity and elegance on one plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, straightforward ingredients is the secret behind this Caprese Chicken Recipe. Each item contributes a distinctive flavor or texture that turns simple grilled chicken into a gourmet dish bursting with color and zest.
- 4 chicken breasts (5-7 oz each, pounded to even thickness): Ensures even cooking and juicy results every time.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that adds warmth and depth.
- 2 teaspoons sea or kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors while seasoning the meat perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle sweetness and savory balance.
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper: Brings a slight heat and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Keeps the chicken moist and helps the seasoning stick delightfully.
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into 8 pieces: Melts beautifully on the chicken, adding creamy indulgence.
- 2 vine-ripened tomatoes, sliced into ½” slices: Offers juicy freshness and a burst of color.
- Fresh basil leaves, to taste: Provides herbaceous brightness and aroma.
- Aged balsamic or balsamic glaze, to taste: Adds a sweet tangy finish that ties every bite together.
How to Make Caprese Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by pounding each chicken breast to a uniform thickness just under one inch. This helps the breasts cook evenly and stay wonderfully juicy throughout the grilling process, avoiding those dry edges that can ruin a meal.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Mix the Italian seasoning, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and cracked black pepper in a small bowl. Brush each chicken breast with olive oil to lock in moisture and then sprinkle the seasoning blend generously on both sides. This simple yet flavorful rub is what sets the stage for an irresistible grilled chicken base.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on a hot grill and cook for about five to six minutes per side. Aim for an internal temperature of 155 degrees Fahrenheit here because you’ll be adding cheese next, which requires a bit more time. This step develops a gorgeous char while locking in juices.
Step 4: Add Toppings and Finish Cooking
Lay slices of fresh mozzarella evenly over each chicken breast and close the grill lid. Continue to cook until the cheese has melted beautifully and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and that ooey-gooey mozzarella perfection is achieved.
Step 5: Assemble Your Caprese Chicken Recipe
Transfer the grilled chicken to a serving platter and top each piece with those vibrant tomato slices and handfuls of fresh basil leaves. Finish the dish with a generous drizzle of aged balsamic or a sweet balsamic glaze for an elegant, tangy contrast that brings the whole dish together.
How to Serve Caprese Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding extra fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of cracked pepper right before serving enhances both aroma and taste. You can also add a pinch of flaky sea salt for an added crunch that balances the creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve your Caprese Chicken Recipe alongside a crisp green salad or some roasted asparagus for a simple, healthy balance. Garlic bread or a light pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs makes for a comforting addition without competing with the main flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, arrange the chicken breasts overlapping on a large platter, then scatter sliced tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella between them. Use a squeeze bottle for a neat balsamic glaze drizzle. Alternatively, serve each portion on individual plates with a few basil leaves and a balsamic swirl around the edges for a restaurant-worthy touch at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Caprese Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the balsamic glaze separate if possible to preserve the textures of the fresh basil and tomatoes when reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken breasts without the fresh tomato and basil toppings for up to two months. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Add fresh toppings after thawing to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the mozzarella from toughening and the chicken from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used if you prefer darker meat. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through evenly.
What can I substitute for fresh mozzarella?
If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, use a mild mozzarella that melts well, like low-moisture mozzarella. Keep in mind it won’t have quite the same creamy texture, but it will still taste delicious.
Can I bake the Caprese Chicken Recipe instead of grilling it?
Yes, baking is a great option! Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, sear the seasoned chicken on the stovetop for 2-3 minutes per side, then top with mozzarella and bake for 12-15 minutes until fully cooked and cheese is melted.
What’s the best balsamic glaze to use?
Look for an aged balsamic glaze that is thick and slightly sweet. If you can’t find one, you can reduce regular balsamic vinegar on the stove until it thickens into a syrupy consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! The Caprese Chicken Recipe holds up well for meal prepping. Keep your toppings separate and assemble fresh before eating to keep basil crisp and tomatoes juicy.
Final Thoughts
This Caprese Chicken Recipe is a delightful way to elevate a simple chicken dinner into something truly special. Its bright colors, fresh ingredients, and bold flavors will have you reaching for seconds and even planning your next dinner party around it. Give it a try and share the love with those who appreciate a vibrant, home-cooked meal that feels both comforting and exciting.
Print
Caprese Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Caprese Chicken recipe is a delightful blend of Italian flavors featuring tender grilled chicken breasts topped with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil leaves, and a drizzle of aged balsamic glaze. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish offers a perfect balance of savory seasonings and fresh ingredients, making it a quick and elegant meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 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” 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 slightly less than 1 inch to ensure uniform cooking.
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, combine Italian seasoning, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and cracked black pepper. Brush each chicken breast with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with the seasoning blend, coating all sides.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat a grill to high heat. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 155°F, indicating the chicken is nearly cooked through.
- Add toppings: Top each grilled chicken breast with two slices of fresh mozzarella. Continue grilling the chicken with the cheese on top until the mozzarella melts and the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Assemble and serve: Transfer the chicken breasts to a serving platter. Top with tomato slices and fresh basil leaves. Season with additional salt and cracked pepper if desired, then drizzle aged balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze over everything before serving.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the correct internal temperature for safety and juiciness.
- Pounding the chicken helps it cook evenly and tenderizes the meat for the best texture.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or broil the chicken in the oven.
- Choose ripe, vine-ripened tomatoes for the freshest flavor contrast with the creamy mozzarella.
- For a low-sodium version, reduce the added salt and rely more on the seasoning blend and fresh ingredients.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling to retain juices before slicing.
