This Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad is fresh and full of flavor! Juicy grilled chicken pairs perfectly with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil.
Every bite is like summer on a plate! I love drizzling it with balsamic glaze—it adds a tangy sweetness that’s just irresistible. It’s quick to make and perfect for a light meal! 🍅🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with chicken thighs, which will be juicier. Just make sure they’re cooked through.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps the seasoning stick. If you don’t have it, canola or avocado oil works well too.
Fresh Mozzarella: I love using fresh mozzarella for its creaminess. If you can’t find it, sliced provolone or even shredded mozzarella can be a good backup, though they won’t melt the same way.
Tomatoes: Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor. If they’re not available, substitute with sun-dried tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, just adjust the quantity to your taste.
Balsamic Glaze: This adds a sweet and tangy finish. If you don’t have it, you can reduce balsamic vinegar on the stove for a similar effect, or just use plain balsamic vinegar for a lighter note.
How Do You Grill Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
Getting that juicy, perfectly grilled chicken is all about technique. Here’s how to nail it:
- Make sure your grill is preheated. A medium-high heat ensures nice grill marks and helps to seal in juices.
- Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before grilling for even cooking.
- Don’t flip the chicken too early. Let it sear and develop a nice crust, which takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Cover the grill when adding cheese and tomatoes for a couple of minutes to allow melting.
These tips help ensure your chicken comes out juicy and delicious! Enjoy grilling!
Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced or torn
- Balsamic glaze or reduction, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time, making it perfect for a quick meal. In total, you’ll be done in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by ensuring your grill or grill pan is preheated to medium-high heat. This allows for that perfect sear on the chicken, locking in the juices!
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts to give them flavor and help them cook nicely.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the grill. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re fully cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and they have lovely grill marks.
4. Add Cheese and Tomatoes:
In the last 2 minutes of grilling, put a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast, followed by a tomato slice. Close the grill lid or cover the pan to help the cheese melt beautifully.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and place it on serving plates. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of flavor.
6. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze:
Finally, drizzle balsamic glaze over the chicken, cheese, and tomatoes for that delicious tangy-sweet finish. Serve warm and enjoy your tasty and fresh grilled chicken Caprese salad!
Can I Use Different Proteins for This Salad?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chicken, you can substitute it with grilled turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
What Type of Tomatoes Work Best?
Ripe heirloom tomatoes or vine-ripened tomatoes are ideal for their flavor and sweetness. If they’re not in season, you can use cherry tomatoes, halved, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken Caprese salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in the microwave or on a skillet until heated through, but keep the toppings fresh if possible.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
You can prep the chicken and season it in advance, even marinating it overnight for added flavor. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh, especially the mozzarella and basil.
