Grilled Chicken Caprese

Grilled Chicken Caprese is a light, flavorful, and visually stunning dish that’s perfect for summer cooking. Juicy grilled chicken breasts are topped with creamy mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and vibrant pesto, then finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Simple to make and ready in under 35 minutes, it’s a delicious meal that looks as good as it tastes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Grilled Chicken Caprese is bursting with fresh, bright flavors that make it an instant crowd-pleaser. The tangy pesto pairs perfectly with the melt-in-your-mouth mozzarella and ripe tomatoes, while the balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness. It’s the ideal dish for a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and cooks up quickly, making it a win for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

• 2 small cloves garlic, grated or minced

• 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar (or balsamic vinegar)

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for serving

• ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, plus more for serving

• 4 (5-7 oz) chicken breasts

• ¼ cup pesto, plus more for serving

• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced into 8 even pieces

• 2 medium-sized vine-ripened tomatoes, sliced into ½″ slices

• ¼ cup balsamic glaze or aged balsamic, optional

• Fresh basil, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl or glass container, mix the olive oil, garlic, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat. Let the chicken marinate for 15 minutes while you prepare the grill.

2. Prepare the Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates by dipping a wadded paper towel in oil and using tongs to wipe it evenly across the grates.

3. Grill the Chicken: Grill the chicken over direct heat, with the lid closed, for about 3 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155ºF (it will continue to cook once removed from the grill).

4. Add Pesto and Mozzarella: Lower the heat to medium. Spoon 1 tablespoon of pesto over each piece of chicken, then top with 1-2 slices of mozzarella. Cover the grill and cook for about 3 more minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF.

5. Assemble the Dish: Transfer the chicken to a platter and top each piece with fresh tomato slices. Season with salt and pepper, drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze, and garnish with torn basil leaves.

6. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Stovetop Version: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, then add pesto and mozzarella and cover until the cheese melts.

• Different Cheeses: Feel free to substitute mozzarella with burrata or a combination of other cheeses like provolone or goat cheese for a different twist.

• Spicy Kick: Add some fresh chili slices or a drizzle of spicy honey to kick up the heat.

Storage/reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Remove the tomatoes before reheating to prevent them from making the chicken soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts without pounding them?

While it’s recommended to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for quicker and more even cooking, you can skip this step if you prefer. Just be mindful of cooking time, as thicker pieces may require longer grilling.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and pesto ahead of time. Just grill and assemble the dish when you’re ready to serve. The flavors will continue to develop even after marinating.

What can I serve with Grilled Chicken Caprese?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or a bed of pasta or quinoa for a more substantial meal.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The best way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF.

Can I make the pesto ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the pesto ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before using.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Caprese is the perfect combination of fresh, vibrant flavors and easy preparation. With juicy grilled chicken, creamy mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic pesto, this dish is as delicious as it is beautiful. Whether you’re enjoying it on a warm summer evening or serving it to guests, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress and satisfy!