Name: Grilled Chicken Caprese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; Non-stick cooking spray; 4 slices mozzarella cheese; 4 slices tomato; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, sliced; 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons light brown sugar

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Introduction

This Grilled Chicken Caprese is a delicious twist on the classic Italian salad, featuring juicy seasoned chicken breasts topped with melted mozzarella, fresh tomato, and basil. Finished with a homemade balsamic reduction, it’s a perfect meal for summer grilling or any time you crave fresh, vibrant flavors.

Two grilled chicken breasts sit on a white plate with a white marbled background. Each chicken piece is topped with a thick layer of soft white mozzarella cheese. On top of the cheese, there is one large round slice of bright red tomato, garnished with small pieces of fresh green basil. A dark brown balsamic glaze is drizzled over the tomato, cheese, and chicken, creating a glossy texture. A silver fork lies on the right side of the plate and a fresh green basil leaf rests on the left. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 slices mozzarella
4 slices tomato
2 tablespoons basil, sliced
Balsamic Reduction:
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons light brown sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Spray the grill grates with non-stick cooking spray and place the chicken breasts on the grill. Cook until the chicken is almost fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness.
Step 3: Top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella. Close the grill lid and cook for a few more minutes until the cheese melts.
Step 4: While the chicken is finishing, prepare the balsamic reduction by combining the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes until reduced by half. Keep warm.
Step 5: Remove the chicken from the grill and top with sliced tomato and fresh basil. Drizzle the balsamic reduction over each piece. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture or try burrata for an extra decadent touch.
Replace chicken breasts with boneless thighs for juicier meat.
Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
For an indoor version, cook the chicken in a grill pan or under the broiler and melt the cheese under the broiler.

Storage

Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. The balsamic reduction can be stored separately and reheated briefly before serving.

How to Serve

Two grilled chicken breasts lie on a white plate over a white marbled surface. Each chicken breast has a slightly charred texture with visible grill marks. On top of each piece, there is a thick layer of creamy white mozzarella cheese shaped to cover most of the chicken. A bright red, juicy tomato slice sits on the cheese, with chopped fresh green basil leaves scattered over the tomato. Dark balsamic glaze is drizzled over the tomato, cheese, and chicken, creating a shiny, sticky pattern. A green basil leaf rests near the chicken, and a silver fork with a woman’s hand holding it is partially visible on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the balsamic reduction ahead of time?

Yes, the balsamic reduction can be prepared up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Warm it slightly before drizzling over the chicken.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and avoid overcooking.