Transport yourself to the sunny shores of Italy with this delectable Caprese Balsamic Grilled Chicken recipe. Tender chicken breasts marinated in tangy balsamic vinaigrette, grilled to perfection, and topped with creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of sweet balsamic reduction. It’s a flavor explosion that will delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, this dish is sure to impress both family and guests alike.
In our household, this Caprese Balsamic Grilled Chicken has become synonymous with lazy summer evenings spent outdoors, gathered around the grill with friends and family. I still remember the first time I made it for a backyard barbecue – the tantalizing aroma of balsamic mingling with the sizzle of chicken on the grill had everyone’s mouths watering before they even took the first bite. As the chicken cooked to juicy perfection, we couldn’t resist sneaking bites of the fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes, eagerly anticipating the moment when it would all come together in one glorious mouthful. And when it finally did, the burst of flavors – the tangy balsamic, the creamy mozzarella, the sweet tomatoes, and the fragrant basil – transported us to Italy with each bite. Since then, it’s been a staple on our summer menu, a dish that never fails to bring smiles to our faces and warmth to our hearts.
“Why This Caprese Balsamic Grilled Chicken is a Must-Try”
- Perfect harmony of flavors: This recipe combines the classic Caprese salad elements – fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil – with succulent grilled chicken, all tied together with a drizzle of sweet balsamic reduction. Each bite is a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.
- Simple yet elegant: With just a handful of ingredients, this dish is incredibly easy to make yet looks and tastes like something straight out of a gourmet restaurant. It’s the perfect recipe to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile: Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer barbecue or looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal, this Caprese Balsamic Grilled Chicken fits the bill. Serve it alongside a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to please.
- Health-conscious: With lean chicken breasts as the star ingredient and fresh, wholesome toppings, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that you can feel good about serving to your family.
- Crowd-pleaser: From picky eaters to food enthusiasts, this dish has universal appeal. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together, sparking conversation and leaving lasting memories.
Ingredients:
- 4 (170g) boneless skinless chicken breasts (6 ounces each)
- 120ml balsamic vinaigrette (1/2 cup)
- 225g fresh mozzarella ball (8 ounces), sliced
- 1 ripe field tomato, sliced
- 15g basil (1/4 cup), sliced
- 60ml balsamic reduction (1/4 cup)
Directions:
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the balsamic vinaigrette over them. Seal the bag and marinate the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess marinade.
- Grill the chicken for 2-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred. During the last few minutes of grilling, top each chicken breast with slices of mozzarella and tomato, allowing them to heat until the cheese just starts to melt.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle with sliced basil and drizzle with balsamic reduction before serving. Enjoy!
Notes:
- If you don’t have balsamic vinaigrette on hand, you can make your own by combining balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
- Be sure not to overcook the chicken to ensure it stays juicy and tender.
- Feel free to customize the toppings according to your preferences. Add extra basil, a sprinkle of sea salt, or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
