Name: Grilled Chicken Caprese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 large tomatoes, sliced; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)

A fresh and vibrant dish combining juicy grilled chicken breasts topped with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze—perfect for a light, healthy meal.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 large tomatoes, sliced

8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced

1 cup fresh basil leaves

2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)

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

Directions

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic, and Italian herbs if using.

Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes.

Top each chicken breast with slices of fresh tomato and mozzarella. Close the grill lid for 1-2 minutes to allow the cheese to slightly melt.

Remove the chicken from the grill and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Drizzle balsamic glaze over the chicken and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time is about 10 minutes, cooking time around 16 minutes, making the total time approximately 26 minutes. It’s a great option when I want something tasty and quick.

Variations

I sometimes switch things up by adding avocado slices or swapping the balsamic glaze for a pesto drizzle. For extra flavor, marinating the chicken for 30 minutes before grilling adds depth. If I want a lower-carb option, I serve it over a bed of mixed greens instead of bread or pasta. For a bit of spice, adding red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix works well too.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover grilled chicken caprese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I prefer warming it gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken and melting the cheese nicely again. Alternatively, a quick microwave session on medium power works if I’m short on time, but I try to avoid overheating it.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe indoors without a grill?

Absolutely. I use a grill pan or a cast-iron skillet on the stove to get a nice sear and cook the chicken thoroughly.

What can I substitute for fresh mozzarella?

If I don’t have fresh mozzarella, I use sliced provolone or even a mild mozzarella string cheese, though the texture will be different.

How do I make homemade balsamic glaze?

I simmer balsamic vinegar with a bit of honey or sugar until it reduces by half and becomes syrupy. It usually takes about 10-15 minutes.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

I prefer grilling fresh for best flavor, but I sometimes grill the chicken ahead, store it refrigerated, then assemble with fresh toppings before serving.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and fits well into a keto or low-carb diet, especially if served with low-carb sides like greens or cauliflower rice.

Conclusion

I really enjoy making Grilled Chicken Caprese because it’s a quick, healthy dish bursting with fresh flavors. It’s perfect when I want something light but satisfying, and it always impresses guests with its simple yet elegant taste. Whether for a casual family meal or a weekend gathering, this recipe is one I keep coming back to.