Description
This Caprese Chicken recipe offers a delicious and healthy twist on classic Caprese salad by combining grilled chicken breasts with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and a balsamic glaze. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a perfect meal for a quick weeknight dinner that’s flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 chicken breasts (5-7 oz each), pounded to even thickness
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons sea or kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Toppings
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into 8 even pieces
- 2 vine-ripened tomatoes, sliced into ½” slices
- Fresh basil leaves, to taste
- Aged balsamic or balsamic glaze, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness of a little less than 1 inch to ensure uniform cooking.
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, combine Italian seasoning, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and cracked black pepper. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with the seasoning blend.
- Grill the chicken: Heat a grill to high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 155°F, ensuring they’re cooked through but still juicy.
- Add toppings: Place slices of fresh mozzarella on top of each chicken breast. Continue grilling just until the cheese melts and the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Assemble the dish: Transfer the chicken breasts to a serving platter. Top with sliced vine-ripened tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Season with additional salt and pepper as desired. Drizzle with aged balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze before serving for a burst of sweet tanginess.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
- If a grill is unavailable, the chicken can be cooked on a grill pan or under a broiler.
- Fresh mozzarella melts best when added near the end of grilling.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper after topping with tomatoes and basil.
- The balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy flavor but can be omitted for a lighter dish.
