Description
Grilled Chicken Caprese is a light, flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer. With juicy grilled chicken breasts topped with creamy mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, fresh pesto, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this simple yet elegant meal is ready in just 35 minutes. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, it’s a quick and satisfying recipe bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
2 small cloves garlic, grated or minced
2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for serving
¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, plus more for serving
For the Chicken:
4 (5-7 oz) chicken breasts
For the Topping:
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
Instructions
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Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl or glass container, mix olive oil, garlic, 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.
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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.
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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).
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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.
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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.
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Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Stovetop Option: 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 for 3-4 minutes per side, then add pesto and mozzarella and cover until the cheese melts.
- Different Cheeses: Try substituting mozzarella with burrata or a combination of provolone or goat cheese for a different flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add fresh chili slices or a drizzle of spicy honey to add some heat to the dish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: chicken
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
