Elevate your grilling game with this mouthwatering Grilled Chicken Caprese! Tender chicken breasts seasoned to perfection and topped with melty mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with a rich balsamic reduction. This dish is a perfect blend of classic Italian flavors and is sure to impress at any meal.
One summer evening, my husband suggested we try something different on the grill. Inspired by our love for Caprese salad, I decided to combine it with juicy grilled chicken. The result? A dish that quickly became a family favorite. Now, whenever we fire up the grill, the kids eagerly ask if we’re having Grilled Chicken Caprese. It’s a hit at our family gatherings and a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals.
Why This Grilled Chicken Caprese?
1. Simple and Elegant: With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
2. Healthy and Light: Lean chicken breasts and fresh vegetables make this a nutritious choice for any meal.
3. Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or a quick weekend meal, this recipe is ready in under 30 minutes.
4. Bursting with Flavor: The combination of Italian seasoning, melty mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and a sweet-tangy balsamic reduction is simply irresistible.
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 cheese
- 4 slices tomato
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, sliced
For the Balsamic Reduction:
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
Directions:
- Preheat and Season: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Grill the Chicken: Spray the grill with non-stick cooking spray. Cook the chicken breasts on the grill until they are almost fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes per side.
- Add the Cheese: Top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella cheese. Close the grill lid and allow the chicken to cook for a few additional minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Make the Balsamic Reduction: While the chicken is grilling, combine the balsamic vinegar and light brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the mixture is reduced by half and has a syrupy consistency, about 10-15 minutes.
- Assemble and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and top each piece with a slice of tomato and sliced basil. Drizzle generously with the balsamic reduction. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes:
- Grill Alternatives: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken breasts in a grill pan or a regular skillet on the stovetop.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like provolone or fontina for a different flavor.
- Balsamic Glaze: Store any leftover balsamic reduction in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s great on salads, vegetables, or even as a dip for bread.
