Simple Grilled Chicken Caprese With Basil & balsamic

Why This Chicken Caprese is a Summer Essential

There’s something magical about summer cooking — simple ingredients, bright flavors, and meals that feel effortless yet satisfying. Enter: Grilled Chicken Caprese. It’s fresh, vibrant, and full of that sun-drenched Mediterranean energy we crave when the temperatures rise.

This dish brings together the beloved Caprese salad — juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil — and gives it a satisfying protein-packed twist with perfectly grilled chicken. Drizzled with tangy-sweet balsamic glaze and a splash of olive oil, this meal is as beautiful on the plate as it is on the palate.

What’s even better? It’s quick to prep, requires minimal ingredients, and can be served warm or at room temperature. Whether you’re looking for a light weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing BBQ option, or something elegant for alfresco dining, this Chicken Caprese delivers.

With just a few pantry staples and a grill (or grill pan!), you can craft a restaurant-worthy plate that screams summer — no heavy sauces, no complicated prep. Just clean, fresh, satisfying flavor in every bite.

What is Chicken Caprese? The Italian Inspiration

To understand Chicken Caprese, we first look to Caprese salad, a classic Italian dish that hails from the sun-drenched island of Capri. Traditionally made with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil — the colors mirroring the Italian flag — it’s a celebration of freshness and simplicity.

The word Caprese itself translates to “from Capri,” and the salad has been a staple in Italian cuisine since the early 20th century. It epitomizes the Mediterranean ethos of letting quality ingredients shine.

Grilled Chicken Caprese takes this iconic combination and builds it into a hearty, protein-rich entrée. The creamy mozzarella softens over warm chicken, the tomatoes burst with juicy sweetness, and fresh basil adds that signature herbaceous kick. A generous drizzle of balsamic reduction — a modern, slightly Americanized touch — adds a punch of tangy depth and beautiful contrast.

It’s Italian tradition, reimagined for the backyard grill.

Flavor Profile: What Makes This Dish Shine

At its core, Grilled Chicken Caprese is all about balance — flavor and texture in perfect harmony.

• Creamy mozzarella melts slightly on warm chicken, lending richness and softness.

• Juicy tomatoes, either fresh-sliced or halved cherry varieties, bring brightness and sweet acidity.

• Fresh basil contributes a floral, peppery note that ties the dish together.

• Char-grilled chicken offers savory depth and satisfying substance, especially with subtle smoky edges.

• Balsamic glaze brings a sweet-tangy punch that elevates everything on the plate.

This contrast of cool and warm, creamy and juicy, rich and fresh is what makes every bite so compelling. And the textures? Think tender chicken, creamy cheese, crisp tomato, and silky glaze.

Pro Tip: Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a dash of minced garlic or garlic oil for that final touch of culinary finesse.

Ingredient Breakdown – Simple, Fresh & High-Quality

When it comes to Chicken Caprese, ingredient quality is everything. With so few elements, each one should be treated with care and intention.

Chicken Breasts

Go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. For even cooking, pound them to uniform thickness — about ¾ inch is ideal. This ensures juicy results and prevents dry edges.

Expert Tip: Marinate your chicken in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes before grilling. It boosts moisture and adds flavor depth.

Fresh Mozzarella

Use whole milk fresh mozzarella — either sliced from a ball, torn from burrata, or small mozzarella pearls. The creamier, the better. Avoid low-moisture shredded varieties, which won’t deliver the same melt or flavor.

Tomatoes

Pick the ripest, most flavorful tomatoes you can find:

• Heirloom for deep flavor and color.

• Roma for firmness and structure.

• Cherry or grape for easy slicing and juicy sweetness.

Slice larger tomatoes into thick rounds or halve the smaller varieties.

Fresh Basil

This herb is key to the Caprese identity. Use whole leaves for garnish or chiffonade (thin ribbons) for a delicate touch. Add basil just before serving to preserve its aroma and color.

Balsamic Glaze

You can buy store-bought balsamic reduction, or make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until it reduces by half and coats a spoon. Add a teaspoon of honey for balance.

Olive Oil, Salt & Pepper

Finish your dish with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and a pinch of flaky sea salt and freshly cracked pepper to wake up all the flavors.

Tools & Equipment You’ll Need

You don’t need much to pull off this restaurant-worthy dish at home. Here’s a quick list of what you’ll need:

• Grill or Grill Pan – For that irresistible char and smoky flavor.

• Tongs – To flip your chicken easily without losing juices.

• Meat Thermometer – Ensures your chicken is cooked to a safe 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.

• Small Saucepan – If making homemade balsamic reduction.

• Cutting Board & Sharp Knife – For prepping tomatoes, basil, and slicing the chicken.

Optional: a serving platter to layer your Caprese components beautifully for presentation.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Chicken Caprese With Basil & Balsamic

 Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start with 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels, then pound them gently to an even thickness (about ¾ inch). This ensures even grilling.

Place the chicken in a bowl or zip-top bag with:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Juice of ½ lemon

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Marinate for 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) in the fridge.

 Step 2: Preheat the Grill or Grill Pan

Heat your grill to medium-high or preheat a cast iron grill pan over medium heat. Brush the grates or pan lightly with oil to prevent sticking.

 Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for:

• 5–6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

For extra flavor, you can brush the chicken with a bit of balsamic vinegar during the final minute of cooking.

Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes.

 Step 4: Assemble the Caprese Topping

While the chicken rests, prep your toppings:

• Mozzarella: Slice or tear 4 oz of fresh mozzarella.

• Tomatoes: Slice 2 ripe tomatoes or halve 1 cup of cherry/grape tomatoes.

• Basil: Stack and chiffonade 6–8 leaves (or keep whole if preferred).

 Step 5: Build & Finish

Place grilled chicken on a platter or individual plates. Top each breast with:

• Tomato slices

• Mozzarella

• Fresh basil

Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade) and a final splash of extra-virgin olive oil.

Finish with flaky sea salt and fresh-cracked black pepper to taste. Serve warm or at room temp.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

Want to make this dish your own? Here are easy ways to twist the flavor while staying true to the Caprese spirit:

 Garlic Butter Chicken Caprese

Instead of olive oil, grill the chicken in garlic butter or brush with garlic-parmesan compound butter for rich, savory flavor.

 Roasted Tomato Caprese

Roast cherry tomatoes in olive oil and sea salt until blistered. Use them warm on top of the chicken for deeper umami.

 Spicy Kick

Add red pepper flakes to your marinade or drizzle with Calabrian chili oil for heat.

 Swap the Cheese

Try burrata for a luscious, creamy twist or goat cheese for tanginess.

 Serve Over Greens or Grains

Turn this into a full meal by serving over:

• Arugula or mixed greens

• Garlic herb quinoa

• Pesto pasta or orzo

 Bonus Add-Ins

• Sliced avocado

• Grilled zucchini

• Toasted pine nuts

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t skip the marinade. It makes a huge difference in juiciness and flavor.

• Use high-quality mozzarella. Look for fresh “fior di latte” or buffalo mozzarella if possible.

• Let the chicken rest. This keeps juices inside and ensures a tender bite.

• Drizzle glaze just before serving. Too early and it can run off or get sticky.

• Season every layer. A sprinkle of salt on the tomatoes and mozzarella helps them pop.

Expert Shortcut: If you’re short on time, use rotisserie chicken slices and layer the Caprese toppings cold for a salad-style version.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Chicken Caprese ahead of time?

Yes — grill the chicken up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently and assemble toppings fresh just before serving.

What’s the best type of tomato to use?

Heirloom or vine-ripened are best for flavor. Cherry or grape tomatoes work great for bite-sized convenience and sweetness.

Is balsamic glaze the same as balsamic vinegar?

No — balsamic glaze is a reduced, thickened version of balsamic vinegar, often slightly sweetened. You can make it at home by simmering 1 cup of vinegar until reduced by half.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely! Skip the mozzarella and use grilled veggies or avocado slices instead. The dish still shines with balsamic and basil.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes — bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 165°F.