Grilled Chicken Caprese a Taste of Italy in Your Backyard
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a taste of Italy, but don't want to book a flight? I get you. Let's talk about grilled chicken caprese .
Seriously, this dish explodes with summery goodness. It's like sunshine on a plate and tastes even better.
Brief Overview
The humble caprese salad hails from Capri. This simple dish highlights fresh, quality ingredients. This recipe takes inspiration. Easy grilled chicken caprese is ready in under 35 minutes.
It makes two servings. Perfect for a quick date night or solo treat.
Main Benefits
This recipe is actually pretty healthy! Lean protein from the chicken keeps you full. The fresh tomatoes and basil deliver vitamins.
This grilled chicken caprese healthy meal is also a great way to use garden fresh ingredients. It's my go-to for a fuss free, flavourful dinner.
What makes it special? It tastes amazing and uses only a handful of ingredients.
Craving Italian tonight? Let's talk ingredients! I love this dish. It reminds me of my trip to Italy. The food was amazing. Honestly, I've never had anything like it!
Now, let's dive into what you'll need. Get ready for some flavor bombs! I think you will find that this chicken caprese grill recipe is perfect.
Let's Talk Grilled Chicken Caprese Ingredients
So, you wanna make some seriously good grilled chicken caprese ? Awesome. Let’s talk ingredients, because that's where the magic happens.
No stress, I promise! This easy grilled chicken caprese recipe will be awesome!
Main Ingredients to Make You Sing!
Alright, check this out. For two yummy servings of this italian grilled chicken recipes goodness, here’s what you need. You will enjoy this quick grilled chicken dinner idea!
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz/170g each) - Look for chicken that's nice and pink, not pale or grey, you know?
- 1 tablespoon olive oil. Extra virgin if you're fancy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt. Sea salt is my fave.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Freshly ground is the bomb.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning.
Next up, the caprese magic! Get ready for the mozzarella tomato basil chicken !
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced 1/4 inch thick. Those should be ripe , like from the farmers market
- 4 oz (115g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced 1/4 inch thick. Get the good stuff, it makes a difference!
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves. Chop them up or leave them whole, your call.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze. store-bought or homemade, your call.
Seasoning that Makes Your Tastebuds Dance
Okay, so here's the deal with seasoning. It's all about that Italian vibe. I love how Italian seasoning has such flavor.
Salt, pepper, garlic powder and Italian seasoning are your best friends here. Trust me on this. Now you can make an awesome chicken caprese grill and enjoy the summer with some summer grilling recipes chicken .
Don't have Italian seasoning? A pinch of dried oregano, basil and thyme will do the trick. Are you on a diet? grilled chicken caprese healthy is a great option.
Equipment You Need, and Maybe Don't
Don't worry, you don't need a fancy kitchen. I didn't, when I first started.
- Grill (gas or charcoal) or a grill pan. Any of them works really great.
- Small bowl for mixing seasonings.
- Cutting board.
- Knife.
- Meat thermometer. This is ESSENTIAL for chicken. You want that internal temperature to hit 165° F ( 74° C) , OK? No playing around with raw chicken, yeah?
Don't have a meat thermometer? Get one. Seriously. But if you're really stuck, pierce the chicken with a knife in the thickest part.
The juices should run clear, not pink. But again, get a thermometer . They're cheap and keep you safe.
Alright, you're set. Let's get cooking! Remember, this grilled caprese chicken recipe is all about having fun. Don't stress if it's not perfect the first time.
That's how you learn. Plus, even if it's a little wonky, it's still going to taste amazing. Grilled chicken caprese variations ? You could add pesto on top, or why not some sun-dried tomatoes?
Honestly, this grilled chicken caprese is one of my go-to recipes. It's quick, easy, and everyone loves it. Even picky eaters! I hope you enjoy this!
Let's Grill! Making the Perfect Grilled Chicken Caprese
Honestly, who doesn't love summer grilling? One of my all-time fave summer grilling recipes chicken? Grilled Chicken Caprese, hands down.
I've been making variations of this for ages, and it's always a crowd pleaser. Think mozzarella tomato basil chicken simple, fresh, and oh-so-delicious.
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place is Key
- First, get your ingredients prepped. Slice those juicy tomatoes about 1/4 inch thick. The ripe they are, the better! Slice the fresh mozzarella the same thickness. Chop up that fresh basil. I like to keep some whole for garnish too.
- Next, mix your seasonings. It's all about that Italian flair. Olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning. Give it a good whisk! This is essential mise en place to make the grilled chicken caprese .
- And, safety first! Wash your hands and make sure your grilling area is clean and clear. No one wants a burnt burger or a visit to the doc!
Master the Grill: A step-by-step Guide
- Preheat your grill to medium high heat . About 375- 400° F (190- 205° C) .
- Brush the chicken with that flavour bomb olive oil mixture.
- Grill the chicken for 5- 6 minutes per side .
- Check the internal temperature. Aim for 165° F ( 74° C) with a meat thermometer.
- Top each grilled chicken breast with tomato and mozzarella.
- Optional: Pop it back on the grill (lid closed) for 1- 2 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Garnish with fresh basil.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze, and serve! This easy grilled chicken caprese is so easy to make.
Pro Tips for Grilled Chicken Caprese Chicken Caprese
- Pound those chicken breasts. Make them even thickness for even cooking! A rolling pin works great.
- Don't overcook the chicken ! Nobody likes dry chicken. Use a meat thermometer.
- Making a caprese chicken balsamic glaze from scratch? Simmer balsamic vinegar until it thickens, maybe 10 minutes.
- Common mistake: Skipping the resting time. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling. Trust me, it makes a difference!
So there you have it! My go-to grilled chicken caprese recipe . It’s an italian grilled chicken recipe that's quick, easy, and always a hit.
Plus, it is a great grilled chicken caprese healthy alternative!. Seriously, give it a go, and tell me what you think! This quick grilled chicken dinner is perfect for busy weeknights or any summer get-together.
Recipe Notes for Your Grilled Chicken Caprese Masterpiece
Honestly, sometimes the best part of a recipe is tweaking it to make it your own. So, let's dive into some ideas! This grilled chicken caprese recipe is fantastic as is, but these notes will help you nail it, no matter what.
Plating Like a Pro & Perfect Pairings
Okay, so presentation totally matters. For plating, think rustic Italian vibes. Arrange the easy grilled chicken caprese on a bed of fresh arugula.
Then, drizzle extra balsamic glaze. Garnish with a sprig of basil, just for show. As for sides? A simple caprese chicken balsamic glaze pairs amazingly with a crisp green salad.
And some crusty bread for soaking up all that deliciousness is a must . A light Italian white wine? Bellissimo!
Storing Leftovers (If There Are Any!)
If you actually have any leftovers of this italian grilled chicken recipes , here's the lowdown. Pop the mozzarella tomato basil chicken in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheating? Gently warm it in the oven at 300° F ( 150° C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Avoid the microwave. No one likes rubbery chicken. And sadly, freezing isn't really recommended for this one. It can change the texture of the chicken and cheese, and nobody wants that.
Grilled Chicken Caprese Variations To Suit Your Taste
Fancy a change? Try swapping out the mozzarella for burrata for a creamier experience. Or add a smear of pesto under the tomatoes.
I once used roasted red peppers instead of tomatoes. Seriously good! For a healthier take on grilled chicken caprese healthy , try using low-fat mozzarella.
If you're cutting carbs, serve this quick grilled chicken dinner over a bed of zucchini noodles instead of alongside bread.
So delicious and much healthier. This chicken caprese grill is super versatile!
Nutrition Made Easy
So, let's be real. This grilled chicken caprese isn't exactly a salad, but it's pretty good for you! It is packed with protein from the chicken.
You also get some vitamins from the tomatoes and basil. Plus, mozzarella is a good source of calcium. Balsamic glaze? Well, that’s mostly sugar, but a little goes a long way! As summer grilling recipes chicken goes, this is a light and tasty winner!
And there you have it! A few simple notes to make your grilled chicken caprese the best it can be.
Don’t be afraid to experiment, have fun, and enjoy the process! You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make sure my grilled chicken caprese chicken caprese stays juicy and doesn't dry out on the grill?
Ah, the million dollar question! To keep your chicken juicy, first, don't overcook it! Use a meat thermometer and aim for 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. Also, letting the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after grilling is crucial; it allows the juices to redistribute, preventing them from running out when you cut into it.
Think of it like letting a good cup of tea steep.
Can I make grilled chicken caprese chicken caprese ahead of time?
While the dish is best served fresh, you can certainly prep some components ahead of time. You can grill the chicken a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Then, just before serving, add the tomato and mozzarella slices, warm it slightly if desired (a quick blast under the grill or in the microwave), and drizzle with balsamic glaze and basil.
Just remember that the mozzarella's texture might change slightly if stored overnight.
I don't have a grill. Can I still make this Grilled Chicken Caprese?
Absolutely! If you don't have a grill, a grill pan on your stovetop works great, giving you those lovely grill marks. You can also use a regular frying pan, or even bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until cooked through.
The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious a bit like comparing a fry-up at a greasy spoon to a Michelin star restaurant!
What are some variations I can try with this grilled chicken caprese recipe?
Get creative! Try adding a layer of pesto under the tomatoes and mozzarella. Sun-dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives offer a delightful Mediterranean twist. For a little kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top.
It's like choosing your favourite toppings at a build your-own pizza place the possibilities are endless!
How should I store leftover Grilled Chicken Caprese?
Store any leftover chicken separately from the tomatoes and mozzarella to prevent the chicken from getting soggy. Place the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tomatoes and mozzarella are best enjoyed fresh, but can also be stored in a separate container for a day or two.
Reheat the chicken gently before topping with the Caprese ingredients.
Is Grilled Chicken Caprese healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?
Yes, Grilled Chicken Caprese is a relatively healthy dish! It's high in protein from the chicken and mozzarella, providing essential amino acids. The tomatoes are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, and basil adds both flavor and potential health benefits.
Just be mindful of the balsamic glaze, as it can contain added sugar. It's a much better choice than fish and chips, that's for sure!
Grilled Chicken Caprese A Taste Of Italy In Your
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 375 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 1g |