Grilled Chicken Caprese

Name: Grilled Chicken Caprese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 1 tbsp maple syrup; 1 pound cherry tomatoes; 6 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls; Fresh basil leaves

Published: July 7, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh basil, tomatoes, and mozzarella creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
Versatile Meal: Great on its own or served alongside grilled vegetables, this recipe can adapt to various occasions.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and nutrients, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious.
Perfect for Entertaining: Impress guests with this stunning presentation that looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools for an efficient preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Glass container for marinating
Mixing bowl
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Provides that smoky flavor that enhances the chicken while allowing for even cooking.
Glass container for marinating: Ensures your marinade stays intact without reacting with any materials.
Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients seamlessly without making a mess.

Ingredients

To make this flavorful Grilled Chicken Caprese, gather the following ingredients:

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.

How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a glass container.
Add the 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 the Grill

After marinating the chicken, preheat your grill over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Caprese Salad Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and olive oil.
Stack all basil leaves together, roll them up tightly, and slice thinly to create a chiffonade.
Add sliced basil into the salad mixture and let it sit while cooking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

When grill temperature reaches 400ºF, place marinated chicken on the grill.
Immediately lower heat to medium. Discard any leftover marinade.
Grill for 8-10 minutes until chicken loosens from the grill.
Flip chicken and cook for another 8-10 minutes until no longer pink in center.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

Once cooked through, remove chicken from grill and let it rest on a cutting board for a couple of minutes.
Slice grilled chicken and serve topped with Caprese salad mixture.
Drizzle balsamic reduction over the plate and sprinkle finishing sea salt to taste.

Enjoy this delightful Grilled Chicken Caprese as an easy summer meal perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Caprese

Grilled Chicken Caprese is a delicious and vibrant dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply enjoying a weeknight dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

On a Plate

Serve the grilled chicken sliced and arranged beautifully on a plate, topped with the Caprese salad mixture for a colorful presentation. Drizzle balsamic reduction over the top for added flavor.

In a Wrap

For a fun twist, wrap slices of grilled chicken and Caprese salad in a large tortilla. This makes for an easy-to-eat meal that’s perfect for picnics or lunch on-the-go.

Over Greens

Place the sliced chicken and Caprese topping over a bed of mixed greens or arugula. This adds freshness and makes it a light yet satisfying option.

As Skewers

Thread pieces of grilled chicken, mozzarella pearls, and cherry tomato halves onto skewers. This playful presentation is great for appetizers or party bites.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Caprese

Perfecting Grilled Chicken Caprese requires attention to detail and some key techniques. Follow these tips to ensure your dish shines every time.

Marinate well: Allow the chicken to marinate overnight for maximum flavor absorption. If time is short, aim for at least 2 hours.
Preheat properly: Ensure your grill is preheated to 400ºF before adding the chicken. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks while keeping the meat juicy.
Monitor cooking time: Grill the chicken for 8-10 minutes on each side, but always check for doneness by ensuring there’s no pink in the center.
Let it rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest on a cutting board for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Caprese

Pairing side dishes with Grilled Chicken Caprese can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement its flavors perfectly.

Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic and olive oil adds crunch and flavor, making it an ideal accompaniment.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or zucchini can be grilled alongside your chicken for added color and taste.
Caprese Salad: A classic side dish featuring fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar that echoes the flavors of your main dish.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, bell peppers, and lemon dressing offers a healthy grain option full of nutrients.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a comforting side that balances well with the lightness of the chicken dish.
Fruit Salad: A bright fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds sweetness and is a great palate cleanser between bites of savory chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Caprese, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Bold marination: Skipping the marination process can lead to bland chicken. Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, for maximum flavor.
Bold grill temperature: Not preheating the grill properly can result in uneven cooking. Ensure your grill reaches 400ºF before placing the chicken on it.
Bold cutting technique: Cutting chicken too soon can cause juices to escape. Let the grilled chicken rest for a couple of minutes before slicing for juicy results.
Bold ingredient freshness: Using wilted basil or overripe tomatoes can affect taste and presentation. Always opt for fresh ingredients for vibrant flavors and colors.
Bold vinegar choice: Using low-quality balsamic vinegar may compromise flavor. Choose a good quality balsamic reduction for a rich finish that elevates your dish.
Bold portion control: Overloading your grill can lead to uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary to ensure each piece is cooked perfectly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Grilled Chicken Caprese in an airtight container.
It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Caprese

Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
Use freezer-safe bags or containers; it will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Caprese

Oven: Preheat to 350ºF, place chicken on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel; heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions often asked about Grilled Chicken Caprese.

What is Grilled Chicken Caprese?

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

Can I customize my Grilled Chicken Caprese?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like grilled bell peppers or avocados for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I make the balsamic reduction?

To make balsamic reduction, simmer balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until it thickens, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can easily substitute turkey or lamb if you prefer different flavors while keeping the rest of the recipe intact.

How do I serve Grilled Chicken Caprese?

Serve it as a main dish with sides like grilled zucchini or salad, making it perfect for summer entertaining or casual dinners.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Caprese combines fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors into one satisfying dish. It’s versatile enough for meal prep or special occasions. Customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs for a personal touch, and enjoy this delicious recipe all summer long!

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