Chicken Caprese is a quick and tasty dish made with grilled chicken, fresh tomato slices, soft mozzarella, and basil. A drizzle of balsamic glaze brings everything together. It’s easy to make at home and feels fresh, light, and full of flavor — perfect for both weeknights and special meals.
Why We Love This Chicken Caprese Recipe
You’ll love this Chicken Caprese recipe because it brings so much satisfaction without the stress. There’s something about combining hot grilled chicken with cool slices of tomato and soft mozzarella that just works. The contrast in temperatures and textures keeps each bite interesting and satisfying.
This meal is also highly versatile. You can serve it with a simple salad, alongside roasted vegetables, or over a bed of pasta or rice. And since you don’t need any complicated techniques or tools, it’s accessible even if you’re new to cooking.
What really sets it apart is the balsamic glaze. That sweet and tangy drizzle ties everything together and elevates the dish. You get creamy cheese, juicy tomato, grilled chicken, and that pop of balsamic — all in one bite. It’s comfort food that doesn’t weigh you down and looks beautiful on the plate.
Ingredients about Chicken Caprese
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dry Italian seasoning (or a mix of garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil)
- 4 thick slices of ripe tomato
- 4 one-ounce slices of fresh mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (or balsamic reduction)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, thinly sliced
How to Make Chicken Caprese Directions
Start by preparing your chicken. If your chicken breasts are thick, you may want to pound them slightly to make them even in size. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and rub it in gently. Then season both sides with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning blend.
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes per side. The exact timing depends on the thickness of the chicken. You’re looking for a golden brown color with nice grill marks on both sides. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness — you want an internal temperature of 165°F.
Once the chicken is cooked through, place a slice of mozzarella on top of each breast. Let it sit for about a minute on the grill so it starts to melt slightly. You’re not looking for it to be completely melted, just soft and beginning to ooze around the edges.
Remove the chicken from the heat and transfer it to a serving plate. Now, top each chicken breast with a thick, juicy slice of tomato. Sprinkle the thinly sliced basil over the top for a fresh, herbaceous finish. Add a touch more salt and pepper, if desired.
Finally, drizzle the balsamic glaze over each portion. This glaze is thicker and sweeter than regular balsamic vinegar and adds a punch of flavor. If you’re using a store-bought version, make sure it’s thick enough to hold its shape. If you’re making it yourself, simply simmer balsamic vinegar until it reduces by half and becomes syrupy.
Serve immediately while the chicken is hot and the toppings are cool and fresh. It’s a perfect balance of textures and temperatures that you’ll want to enjoy right away.
How to Serve Chicken Caprese
There are many ways to enjoy Chicken Caprese, depending on what you’re in the mood for. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity — you can dress it up for dinner parties or keep it casual for a quiet family meal.
Serve the chicken as the main course with a fresh green salad on the side. A light arugula salad with lemon dressing pairs beautifully with the tangy balsamic and creamy mozzarella. If you’re looking for something heartier, consider pairing the chicken with roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
Another option is to turn this recipe into a sandwich. Just tuck the chicken, tomato, mozzarella, and basil into a crusty ciabatta roll or toasted baguette for a filling lunch. You can also slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of cooked pasta with a drizzle of extra glaze.
You can even prepare this dish as part of a meal prep routine. Grill the chicken and store the toppings separately. Then, assemble everything fresh throughout the week for quick, no-fuss lunches or dinners.
Expert Tips: Chicken Caprese
- Use uniform chicken pieces: Try to select chicken breasts that are similar in size and thickness. This ensures that they cook evenly and prevents some pieces from drying out while others are undercooked.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Chicken can dry out fast if it’s left on the grill too long. Use a meat thermometer to pull it off the grill at exactly 165°F. This keeps it juicy and tender.
- Choose high-quality mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella — the kind that comes in water — melts beautifully and has a mild, creamy flavor. It’s a big step up from the pre-shredded versions.
- Make your own balsamic glaze: If you don’t have store-bought glaze, simmer balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until it reduces by half. It will thicken into a syrup-like texture that’s perfect for drizzling.
- Add the basil last: Fresh basil wilts quickly with heat. For best results, sprinkle it on top of the finished dish just before serving.
How to Store Chicken Caprese
If you have leftovers, you can store your Chicken Caprese in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s best to keep the components separate if possible. Place the grilled chicken in an airtight container, and store the sliced tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella in another.
When you’re ready to reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it briefly until hot. Then add the mozzarella and allow it to soften slightly. Top with fresh tomato, basil, and drizzle with balsamic glaze right before serving to bring back that just-cooked flavor and texture.
Avoid freezing this dish, as fresh mozzarella and tomatoes do not hold up well in the freezer and tend to become watery once thawed.
Variation of Chicken Caprese
There are many ways you can put a twist on this classic recipe while keeping the core flavors intact. One popular option is to turn it into a stuffed Caprese chicken. Instead of topping the chicken, slice a pocket into each breast and stuff it with mozzarella, tomato, and basil before cooking.
You can also try a Caprese chicken bake. Place the seared chicken in a baking dish, add the toppings, and bake it all together until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This version works great when you’re feeding a crowd or want something you can prepare ahead of time.
For a lighter option, try making a Caprese chicken salad. Slice grilled chicken over mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s a great way to enjoy the same flavors in a refreshing, low-carb format.
If you’re in the mood for bold flavors, add a smear of pesto on top of the chicken before layering on the mozzarella and tomato. The herbs and garlic in the pesto give the dish a whole new dimension.
FAQ about Chicken Caprese
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can! Just adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness. Boneless thighs work great and stay very juicy.
Do I need a grill to make Chicken Caprese?
Not at all. A stovetop grill pan or even a regular skillet works fine. You can also bake or air-fry the chicken if you prefer.
What is the difference between balsamic glaze and vinegar?
Balsamic glaze is thicker and sweeter. It’s made by reducing balsamic vinegar until it becomes syrupy. It’s less acidic and perfect for drizzling over dishes.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can grill the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Add the toppings fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any packaged items like the balsamic glaze to be sure.
What can I serve with Chicken Caprese?
Try it with pasta, roasted vegetables, crusty bread, or a simple salad. The dish is flexible and pairs well with many sides.
Chicken Caprese
Equipment
- Grill or Grill Pan
- Meat Thermometer
- Serving Plate
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dry Italian seasoning (or a mix of garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil)
- 4 slices ripe tomato thick slices
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese one-ounce slices
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (or balsamic reduction)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil thinly sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by pounding it to an even thickness, then drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken for 3 to 5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Place a slice of mozzarella on each chicken breast and let it melt slightly on the grill.
- Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and top with tomato slices and fresh basil.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
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