Summer is the perfect time for fresh, light, and delicious meals that can be whipped up in no time.
This Grilled Chicken Caprese is a fantastic example of how to combine simple ingredients into a delightful dish that screams summer.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this quick and tasty dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2-4 thin chicken breasts
- 1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 4 slices tomato
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Instructions:
- Season the Chicken:
Start by preparing your seasoning mix. In a small bowl, combine 1.5 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. If you have large chicken breasts, you can slice them butterfly style to make them thinner. Alternatively, use smaller chicken breasts and pound them thin with a meat mallet. This helps them cook more evenly and quickly. Once your chicken is prepped, season both sides generously with your spice mix. - Prepare the Toppings:
Slice your tomatoes into round slices. Take your fresh basil leaves, stack them, roll them up, and slice them into thin strips (this technique is called chiffonade). Set these aside for later. - Preheat the Grill:
Preheat your outdoor grill or a grill pan on your stovetop to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, make sure to spray it with nonstick spray to prevent the chicken from sticking. If you’re using a grill pan on the stove, drizzle about 1 tablespoon of olive oil to coat the bottom. - Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the preheated grill or pan. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side. To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once the chicken is almost done, place a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese on top of each piece. Close the grill lid or cover the pan with a lid to allow the cheese to melt. This should take about 2-3 minutes. - Assemble and Serve:
Transfer the grilled chicken to a serving dish or individual plates. Top each piece of chicken with a slice of tomato. Drizzle with balsamic glaze according to your taste. Finally, sprinkle the fresh basil strips over the top for a burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.
Tips for the Perfect Grilled Chicken Caprese:
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil will make a significant difference in the flavor of this dish. Fresh ingredients add a vibrant and authentic taste.
- Even Cooking: Pounding the chicken breasts thin helps them cook more evenly and quickly, ensuring that they are juicy and tender.
- Balsamic Glaze: You can find balsamic glaze in most grocery stores, but you can also make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar with a bit of honey or sugar until it thickens.
Serving Suggestions:
This Grilled Chicken Caprese pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, grilled vegetables, or a light pasta dish. It’s a versatile meal that can be dressed up for a dinner party or kept casual for a family meal.
Enjoy Your Summer Meal:
This recipe is perfect for those warm summer evenings when you want something delicious but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen.
The combination of juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and tangy balsamic glaze is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
So, fire up that grill, gather your fresh ingredients, and enjoy a delightful summer dinner with this easy and flavorful Grilled Chicken Caprese.