Grilled Chicken Caprese

This Grilled Chicken Caprese recipe is a delightful way to enjoy fresh summer flavors, combining the classic Caprese salad with juicy grilled chicken. The smoky aroma from the grill enhances the dish, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With its vibrant colors and delicious taste, this one-dish meal is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal on the table in no time.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for summer BBQs or a cozy weeknight dinner; it suits various occasions.
• Easy Clean-Up: This recipe combines everything on one plate, making post-meal clean-up a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Grilled Chicken Caprese successfully, having the right tools will simplify your cooking process. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Glass container for marinating
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on the chicken and zucchini.
• Glass container for marinating: Keeps flavors intact while allowing the chicken to soak up the marinade effectively.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for preparing the Caprese salad topping easily without mess.

Ingredients

This is sure to become your favorite summertime dinner too with the fresh Caprese flavors combined with the balsamic grilled chicken and a bit of smoky grilled zucchini for extra flavor and veggies added in to make this a 1 and done dinner!

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (2-3, see notes)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (I used Grade A)
• 1/2 tsp sea salt

For the Caprese Salad Topping

• 1 pound of cherry tomatoes (halved equaling 4 cups)
• 6 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls (drained and halved)
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 8 large leaves of basil (1/4 ounce)
• Flaked finishing sea salt to taste
• Balsamic reduction or balsamic vinegar

For the Grilled Zucchini

• For the grilled zucchini I used 8 ounces per person for a total of 2 pounds. Slice off both ends and split in half down the middle.

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a glass container. Add all marinade ingredients: olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and sea salt. Mix everything together well. Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least 2 hours.

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

After marinating, preheat your grill over medium-high heat until it reaches about 400ºF.

Step 3: Prepare Caprese Salad Topping

While waiting for the grill, prepare your salad topping:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and olive oil.
2. For basil, stack all leaves together. Roll them up tightly and slice them thinly into ribbons (chiffonade). Add basil to the salad mixture.

Step 4: Grill Chicken

Once your grill is ready:
1. Place marinated chicken on the grill.
2. Immediately lower heat to medium.
3. Discard any leftover marinade.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes until chicken loosens from grill grates easily.
5. Flip chicken over; cook another 8-10 minutes until cooked through with no pink in center.

Step 5: Serve

Remove grilled chicken from grill; let it rest on a cutting board for a couple of minutes before slicing. Serve topped with prepared Caprese salad. Drizzle with balsamic reduction if desired and sprinkle finishing sea salt to taste.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delicious Grilled Chicken Caprese!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Caprese

Grilled Chicken Caprese is a delightful dish that brings together the freshness of Italian flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Over a Bed of Greens

• A fresh bed of arugula or spinach pairs perfectly with the chicken, adding a peppery bite and vibrant color.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty Italian bread for soaking up the delicious juices and balsamic reduction.

On a Platter with Balsamic Drizzle

• Arrange the chicken and salad on a large platter, drizzling extra balsamic reduction on top for an impressive presentation.

As Part of a Grilled Vegetable Medley

• Pair with grilled veggies like bell peppers and asparagus for a colorful and nutritious side.

With Pasta Salad

• A light pasta salad tossed with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs complements the flavors of the chicken beautifully.

In Wraps or Sandwiches

• Slice the grilled chicken and layer it in wraps or sandwiches with additional mozzarella and basil for a portable meal option.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Caprese

Perfecting Grilled Chicken Caprese involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Marinate Overnight: For optimal flavor, let your chicken marinate overnight. This allows the balsamic vinegar and seasonings to penetrate deeply.

• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is properly preheated to 400ºF before placing the chicken on it. This helps achieve those lovely grill marks.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes. Their quality significantly affects the dish’s overall taste.

• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking times as they can vary based on chicken size. Aim for an internal temperature of 165ºF for safety.

• Resting Time: Allowing the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps retain its juices, keeping it tender.

• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to add extras like avocado or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor complexity.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Caprese

Pairing your Grilled Chicken Caprese with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic provide a comforting contrast to the freshness of the dish.

2. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles make for a healthy, low-carb alternative that aligns well with Italian flavors.

3. Caprese Salad: A classic pairing, this salad made from fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil mirrors the flavors in your main dish.

4. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs adds texture and nutrition, making it a wholesome side that balances out your meal.

5. Roasted Asparagus: Tossed in olive oil and sea salt, roasted asparagus offers a crunchy texture that complements grilled chicken nicely.

6. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with chopped vegetables and herbs enhances the Mediterranean vibe of your dinner.

7. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter provides sweet notes that contrast well with savory elements in your dish.

8. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: This refreshing salad packed with chickpeas, cucumbers, and feta adds protein while maintaining freshness alongside your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Caprese, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the outcome of your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Over-marinating the chicken: Marinating for too long can result in a mushy texture. Aim for 2 hours to overnight for the best flavor and texture.
• Skipping the resting time: Not letting the chicken rest after grilling can lead to dry meat. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Ignoring grill temperature: Cooking at too high or low temperatures can affect the cooking time and doneness. Preheat your grill properly to maintain even cooking.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale basil or old tomatoes can compromise the fresh flavors of the Caprese. Always opt for fresh produce for the best taste.
• Neglecting to check doneness: Cutting into the chicken too early can lead to undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through at 165ºF.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Caprese

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place inside a freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Caprese

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350ºF and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grilled Chicken Caprese?

Grilled Chicken Caprese is a delightful dish featuring marinated grilled chicken served with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and drizzled with balsamic reduction.

Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional, feel free to experiment with burrata or goat cheese for unique flavors.

How do I customize Grilled Chicken Caprese?

You can add veggies like bell peppers or spinach, use different herbs such as parsley or arugula, or adjust the balsamic vinegar amount according to your taste preferences.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Grilled Chicken Caprese is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and tastes delicious even after reheating.

What should I serve with Grilled Chicken Caprese?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad, crusty bread, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Caprese is not only easy to prepare but also brings vibrant flavors that capture the essence of summer dining. This versatile dish allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, making it perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners. Try it out and enjoy a delightful blend of tastes that everyone will love!

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Grilled Chicken Caprese

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Grilled Chicken Caprese is a fresh and vibrant dish that encapsulates the essence of summer dining. This delightful recipe combines juicy marinated chicken with the classic flavors of Caprese salad, featuring ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. The grilling process imparts a smoky aroma that elevates the overall taste, making it ideal for family gatherings or casual dinners. With minimal prep time and easy clean-up, this one-dish meal not only satisfies your cravings but also impresses your guests with its colorful presentation.

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (divided)
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1 pound cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 6 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls (drained and halved)
• 8 large basil leaves
• Zucchini (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken: Combine chicken breasts with 2 tbsp olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and sea salt in a glass container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400ºF).
3. Prepare the Caprese topping: In a mixing bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, remaining olive oil, and chiffonaded basil.
4. Grill the chicken: Place marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for 8-10 minutes on each side until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165ºF).
5. Serve: Let the grilled chicken rest before slicing and top with the prepared Caprese salad mixture.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 45g
• Cholesterol: 140mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating grilled zucchini alongside the chicken. Experiment with different cheeses like burrata or goat cheese for unique variations. Pair with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.