Fresh Caprese Grilled Chicken Recipe Easy Homemade Basil Version
A quick and easy grilled chicken recipe featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with ripe tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and aromatic fresh basil, finished with a light balsamic drizzle. Perfect for fresh summer dinners and weeknight meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz / 170 g each), pounded slightly for even grilling
- 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 2 large vine-ripened tomatoes, sliced thick
- About 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Pat chicken breasts dry and place between two sheets of plastic wrap. Pound gently with a meat mallet or rolling pin until about ¾ inch (2 cm) thick.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Place chicken in the marinade, ensuring it is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.
- Grill chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, flipping once, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and grill marks appear.
- While chicken grills, slice tomatoes and fresh mozzarella. When chicken is almost done, layer tomato slices and mozzarella on each breast and close the grill lid for 1-2 minutes to soften the cheese slightly.
- Remove chicken from grill, top with fresh basil leaves, and drizzle with extra balsamic vinegar or glaze. Serve immediately.
Notes
Do not over-marinate chicken to avoid toughening from the vinegar acid. Pound chicken breasts for even cooking and juiciness. Add fresh basil after grilling to preserve aroma. Close grill lid briefly when melting mozzarella to prevent it from dripping off. If no grill is available, a heavy skillet or broiler can be used but will lack smoky flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast wit
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 1.5
- Protein: 40
Keywords: grilled chicken, caprese, fresh basil, mozzarella, tomatoes, balsamic, summer dinner, easy recipe, healthy chicken