Description
This Grilled Chicken Caprese recipe features tender chicken breasts seasoned with Italian spices, topped with melted mozzarella, fresh tomato slices, and basil, all drizzled with a sweet and tangy homemade balsamic reduction. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Non-stick cooking spray, as needed
Toppings
- 4 slices mozzarella
- 4 slices tomato
- 2 tablespoons basil, sliced
Balsamic Reduction
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat grill to medium high heat, ensuring it’s clean and lightly oiled or sprayed with non-stick cooking spray for easy cooking and preventing sticking.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken breasts evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper on both sides for a balanced and flavorful base.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook until they are almost fully cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness, flipping carefully.
- Melt the Cheese: Top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella, close the grill lid, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts perfectly.
- Prepare the Balsamic Reduction: While grilling, combine balsamic vinegar and light brown sugar in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes or until reduced to about half, stirring occasionally. Keep warm until ready to use.
- Finish the Dish: Remove the chicken from the grill and immediately top with fresh tomato slices and basil. Drizzle generously with the warm balsamic reduction.
- Serve: Serve immediately while warm to enjoy the harmonious flavors of the Caprese-style grilled chicken.
Notes
- Make sure chicken breasts are of even thickness or pound them slightly to ensure even cooking.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes before melting the cheese under the broiler.
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor contrast.
- The balsamic reduction can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to a week; reheat gently before serving.
- For a lower sugar option, reduce the brown sugar or omit it from the balsamic reduction.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
