This Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad is fresh and colorful! Juicy grilled chicken, ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil come together for a tasty treat.
It’s like summer on a plate! I love tossing it together in just a few minutes, perfect for any day when I need a quick and yummy meal. Grab some crusty bread and you’re all set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. If you’re looking for a change, try thighs for a juicier option, or even a plant-based substitute like grilled tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Olive Oil: For grilling, olive oil works great. You can substitute avocado oil, which has a high smoke point and adds a nice flavor, too.
Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes are essential for freshness. Heirloom or cherry tomatoes are excellent substitutions for a sweeter touch. Canned tomatoes won’t work as well here.
Fresh Mozzarella: This cheese adds a creamy texture. If you can’t find it, regular mozzarella or even burrata can work, giving you a richer flavor.
Balsamic Glaze: The glaze adds sweetness, but if you’re short on time, balsamic vinegar works too. Just reduce it slightly in a pan to concentrate the flavors.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but a few simple steps will ensure it turns out great every time. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is hot enough before adding chicken. Medium-high heat helps achieve good searing.
- Patt Dry: Tap the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the chicken sear instead of steam, leading to a better texture.
- Cook Time: Grill for 6-7 minutes on each side, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer can make this step easier!
- Cheese Melting: In the last moments of grilling, add the mozzarella and tomatoes. This allows for a perfectly melted texture without overcooking the chicken.
With these tips, your grilled chicken will be flavorful and juicy every time!
Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Caprese salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to grill. So you’re looking at roughly 30-35 minutes from start to finish! A quick, fresh meal that’s perfect for any time of the day.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This is important for getting those lovely grill marks on your chicken!
2. Seasoning the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the chicken sear nicely. Next, brush them all over with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Make sure every piece gets a good coat of seasoning!
3. Grilling the Chicken:
Now, it’s time to grill! Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes per side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), so it’s a good idea to use a meat thermometer if you have one. Look for nice grill marks and a golden-brown color.
4. Adding the Toppings:
In the last 2 minutes of grilling, place a slice of fresh mozzarella and a slice of tomato on each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to let the cheese melt and the tomato warm up just a bit—this makes it all so delicious!
5. Finishing Touches:
Once the chicken is done, carefully transfer it to a serving plate. Drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top for an extra burst of flavor, and then sprinkle the fresh basil leaves on top. It’s all about making it beautiful!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad immediately, and don’t forget to have some mixed greens or crusty bread on the side if you like. Enjoy this refreshing meal!
This dish effortlessly combines juicy grilled chicken with fresh, vibrant ingredients, embodying the essence of a Caprese salad with an added heartiness. Perfect for a light lunch or a lovely dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add extra flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through compared to breasts.
How Do I Store Leftover Caprese Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the salad fresh, it’s best to store the basil separately and add it just before serving. Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or a skillet to enjoy it warm.
Can I Make This Salad Without Grilling?
Yes! If you prefer not to grill, you can pan-sear the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat or even bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until cooked through. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I Substitute Balsamic Glaze?
Definitely! If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can use regular balsamic vinegar. Just drizzle it lightly over the salad, or you can simmer balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until it thickens to create your own glaze.
