Caprese Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this Caprese Balsamic Grilled Chicken because it’s simple, light, and packed with all the flavors of a classic Caprese salad, but with a satisfying twist. The balsamic marinade infuses the chicken with an irresistible tangy flavor, while the combination of fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil brings a freshness that complements the grilled chicken perfectly. The balsamic reduction adds a sweet, tangy finish that makes the entire dish pop. It’s a great way to enjoy the bright, summery flavors of Caprese without the fuss of a salad.

Ingredients

4 (6 ounce) boneless skinless chicken breasts

1/2 cup balsamic vinaigrette

8 ounce fresh mozzarella ball, sliced

1 ripe field tomato, sliced

1/4 cup basil, sliced

1/4 cup balsamic reduction

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Marinate the chicken in the balsamic vinaigrette for at least 8 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to soak in. If you’re short on time, you can marinate for a shorter period or even skip the marinating step and rely on the balsamic reduction for flavor.

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 2-4 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and slightly charred.

Once the chicken is nearly cooked, top each piece with a slice of fresh mozzarella and tomato. Let it heat on the grill until the mozzarella begins to melt, about 1-2 minutes.

Remove the chicken from the grill and top with sliced basil and a generous drizzle of balsamic reduction.

Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful, fresh meal!

Note: You can grill the chicken on a barbecue, in a grill pan, on the stove, or even broil it in the oven. To make a balsamic reduction, simmer 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar over medium heat until it reduces by half.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4. The prep time is only 5 minutes, with 8 hours of marinating. The cook time is quick, around 15 minutes, making the total time about 20 minutes (excluding marinating time).

Variations

Grilled Vegetables: For extra flavor, add some grilled veggies like zucchini or bell peppers as a side or even on top of the chicken.

Chicken Thighs: Swap out the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier, slightly richer version of this dish.

Different Cheeses: If you prefer a different cheese, you can swap the mozzarella for burrata or goat cheese for a unique twist.

Tomato Variations: Instead of using field tomatoes, try heirloom or cherry tomatoes for a different texture and sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or gently on the stove with a little olive oil to keep it moist. Be cautious not to overheat, as the mozzarella might become too tough.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without marinating the chicken?

While marinating the chicken enhances the flavor, it’s not absolutely necessary. You can skip this step and rely on the balsamic reduction for the flavor, but I highly recommend marinating for the best taste.

How can I make my balsamic reduction?

To make a balsamic reduction, simmer 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar over medium heat until it has reduced by half. This process will concentrate the vinegar’s flavors and make it thicker and sweeter.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They are juicier and have a richer flavor, so they would complement the Caprese topping perfectly.

Can I grill the chicken indoors?

Yes, you can use a grill pan on the stove or even broil the chicken in the oven if you don’t have an outdoor grill.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While grilling the chicken is best done fresh, you can marinate the chicken the night before and prep the toppings ahead of time for a quick cook the next day.

Conclusion

This Caprese Balsamic Grilled Chicken is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of a Caprese salad with the heartiness of grilled chicken. The balsamic marinade adds depth and tang, while the mozzarella, tomato, and basil bring a fresh, vibrant touch. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a meal to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!

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