Ah, summer. The smell of fresh herbs wafting through the air, the sound of sizzling on the grill, and the vibrant colors of ripe tomatoes are the sensory delights that inspired this recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese. It’s a dish that’s incredibly simple and flavorful, perfect for a light yet satisfying weeknight meal.

As a chef who loves to showcase fresh, seasonal ingredients, this recipe is a personal favorite. It takes minimal prep work, allowing the natural flavors of the chicken, tomatoes, and mozzarella to shine. The first time I made it, I was surprised by how quickly it came together, yet how impressive it looked on the plate. It’s a dish that always garners compliments, and it’s become a go-to for summer gatherings.

 

Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Caprese

• 4 4-ounce boneless, skinless chicken breast cutlets, pounded thin
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus fresh black pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 6 cups baby arugula
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced thin
• 3 cups grape tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped

Equipment

• Grill pan or outdoor grill

 

Directions for Grilled Chicken Caprese

• Marinate the Chicken
  • • Combine olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in a shallow dish.
    • Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat.
    • Let them marinate for at least 15 or 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
• Heat the Grill: Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. If using an outdoor grill, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
• Grill the Chicken: Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through and golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
• Assemble the Caprese: Arrange the baby arugula on a platter while the chicken rests. Top with the grilled chicken breasts, then layer with sliced mozzarella and halved grape tomatoes.
• Finishing Touches: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the dish, then sprinkle with freshly chopped basil leaves.

Serving and Sides

This recipe makes 4 servings. It can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal or paired with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a more complete dinner.

 

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Caprese is a delightful way to celebrate summer flavors. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup. It’s a healthy and visually stunning dish perfect for any occasion.

FAQ

Can I use thicker chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Just be sure to pound them thin to ensure even cooking. Aim for a thickness of about 1/2 inch.

Need balsamic glaze?

No problem! You can use a drizzle of balsamic vinegar instead.

What substitutions can I make?

If you don’t have mozzarella, try feta or crumbled goat cheese. If you’re vegetarian, skip the chicken and add roasted chickpeas or tofu for a protein alternatives

 

I hope you enjoy this recipe! If you have any other questions, feel free to comment below.

Happy Cooking!