Grilled Chicken Caprese

This summertime grilled chicken caprese transforms garden-fresh ingredients into a vibrant, protein-packed dinner that celebrates the classic Italian flavors we all love. The juicy balsamic-marinated chicken pairs perfectly with the bright tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil for a meal that feels both indulgent and light.

I first made this recipe during a particularly scorching summer when turning on the oven seemed criminal. My family was instantly hooked, and now it's our go-to dinner for those warm evenings when we want something satisfying without the heaviness.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: creates the protein foundation and takes on the balsamic marinade beautifully
• Extra virgin olive oil: provides the Mediterranean flavor base that enhances all other ingredients
• Balsamic vinegar: adds tangy depth and caramelizes beautifully on the grill
• Maple syrup: balances the acidity with natural sweetness better than processed sugar
• Cherry tomatoes: summer jewels that burst with brightness and juicy flavor
• Fresh mozzarella pearls: creamy little morsels that melt slightly against the warm chicken
• Fresh basil leaves: the aromatic crown jewel that makes this truly caprese
• Balsamic reduction: intensifies the flavor and creates a restaurant quality finish
• Zucchini: optional but adds smokiness and another serving of vegetables

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Place chicken breasts in a glass container and combine with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and sea salt. Mix thoroughly to coat each piece evenly. This step works best overnight but minimum 2 hours is needed for the flavors to properly penetrate the meat. The marinade tenderizes while infusing the chicken with that signature balsamic sweetness.

Prepare the Caprese Topping:

While the grill preheats, combine halved cherry tomatoes and mozzarella pearls with olive oil in a bowl. Stack basil leaves, roll them tightly, and slice into thin ribbons. This chiffonade technique releases the aromatic oils and distributes the basil flavor thoroughly. Fold the basil into the tomato mixture and let the flavors meld while the chicken cooks.

Grill the Chicken:

Heat grill to 400°F, then place marinated chicken on the hot grates. Immediately reduce heat to medium to prevent burning the sugars in the marinade. Grill undisturbed for 8 10 minutes until the meat naturally releases from the grates. This patience ensures beautiful grill marks and prevents tearing. Flip once and continue cooking another 8 10 minutes until no longer pink in the center.

Assemble and Serve:

Allow the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes to let the juices redistribute throughout the meat. Slice the chicken against the grain for maximum tenderness. Top generously with the caprese mixture, drizzle with balsamic reduction, and finish with flaky sea salt. The warm chicken will slightly warm the caprese topping creating a magical temperature contrast.

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The balsamic reduction is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I once served this without it thinking the marinade would be enough, but that final drizzle elevates everything on the plate to restaurant quality. The sweet tanginess creates a beautiful flavor bridge between the chicken and fresh caprese elements.

Make Ahead Options

This recipe offers incredible flexibility for busy households. The chicken can marinate for up to 24 hours, developing even deeper flavor. You can also grill the chicken ahead of time and serve it chilled with the caprese topping for a refreshing summer lunch. Just save the balsamic drizzle and sea salt for right before serving to maintain the perfect texture.

Seasonal Adaptations

While summer brings the most flavorful tomatoes, this recipe works year round with a few adjustments. In winter, you can use smaller grape tomatoes which tend to have better flavor off season. You might also consider roasting the tomatoes for 10 minutes to concentrate their flavor when they are not at peak ripeness. The warm roasted tomatoes create a different but equally delicious variation.

Serving Suggestions

This dish creates a beautiful presentation when served family style on a large platter with the colorful caprese topping cascading over the sliced chicken. For a complete meal without additional sides, double the zucchini portion. The recipe also pairs wonderfully with crusty Italian bread to soak up all the flavorful juices, or alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil for a peppery contrast.

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Storage Tips

If you somehow end up with leftovers, store the chicken and caprese mixture separately in airtight containers. The chicken will keep for 3 4 days, while the caprese is best consumed within 24 hours before the basil begins to darken. When reheating the chicken, do so gently at a low temperature to prevent it from drying out. The caprese topping is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature even when serving with reheated chicken.

Recipe Questions

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate the chicken overnight or for at least 2 hours. This allows the balsamic vinegar and other marinade ingredients to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

→ What can I substitute for mozzarella pearls?

If mozzarella pearls (also called Bocconcini) aren't available, you can substitute any good quality fresh mozzarella cut or torn into small bite-sized pieces.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken and prepare the caprese topping ahead of time, keeping them refrigerated separately. Grill the chicken just before serving and add the fresh topping for best results.

→ What is balsamic reduction and how can I make it?

Balsamic reduction is balsamic vinegar that has been simmered until it thickens and becomes syrupy. To make it, simmer 1 cup of balsamic vinegar over medium-low heat until reduced by half (about 15-20 minutes), then let cool. It will thicken further as it cools.

→ Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or thick slices of grilled halloumi cheese. Both options pair beautifully with the caprese topping and balsamic flavors.

→ What sides go well with Grilled Chicken Caprese?

While this dish is a complete meal with the optional grilled zucchini, it also pairs well with crusty Italian bread, a simple green salad, orzo pasta, or grilled asparagus for additional side options.