This Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad is fresh and colorful! It features juicy grilled chicken, ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, all drizzled with tasty balsamic glaze.
I love how light and refreshing this salad is—perfect for warm days. Plus, who wouldn’t enjoy sneaking extra bites of mozzarella when no one is watching? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to for this salad. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey cutlets work well too. For a vegetarian version, consider grilling thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is perfect for flavor. If you’re out, avocado oil is a great substitute. It has a mild taste and works well for grilling.
Fresh Mozzarella: This cheese is key for that creamy texture. If you can’t find it, burrata or even low-moisture mozzarella can work. For a dairy-free option, try vegan mozzarella or omit the cheese entirely.
Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes are essential for flavor. Heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes are fantastic, but Roma tomatoes are great too. If fresh ones aren’t available, a good-quality canned tomato can substitute for a cooked version.
Basil: Fresh basil brings brightness. If fresh isn’t available, dried basil can work in a pinch, though use less since it’s more potent. Or consider fresh parsley for a different twist.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken to perfection can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get juicy results every time!
- Start by preheating your grill to medium-high—this helps seal in juices.
- Make sure the chicken breasts are of even thickness, so they cook evenly. You can pound them gently if needed.
- Once on the grill, resist the urge to move them around. Let them cook undisturbed to create those beautiful grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and the juiciest chicken.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender.
With these tips, you’ll be serving up delicious grilled chicken in no time!
Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced or chopped (about 1/4 cup)
- Balsamic glaze or reduction, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for grilling, so plan for around 30-35 minutes total. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Giving it enough time to heat up ensures the chicken will cook evenly and get those nice grill marks.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This will create a delicious seasoning for your chicken. Brush the mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts onto the grill. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through—an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is perfect.
4. Add Cheese and Tomatoes:
In the last 2 minutes of grilling, add a slice of mozzarella cheese and a slice of tomato on top of each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to help melt the cheese a little.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and place it on serving plates. Sprinkle the freshly sliced basil over each piece and drizzle generously with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
This Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it up immediately and savor the blend of flavors!
This recipe combines juicy grilled chicken with the classic Caprese elements of fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil, finished with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with turkey cutlets or grilled shrimp. For a vegetarian option, try marinated and grilled eggplant or portobello mushrooms for a hearty alternative.
How Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
You can grill the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the chicken on the grill or in a skillet, then layer it with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Balsamic Glaze?
No worries! If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can make a simple balsamic reduction by simmering balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan until it thickens. You can also use a drizzle of regular balsamic vinegar for a lighter option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy, simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding fresh basil for flavor.
