This Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad is a fresh and colorful dish! It combines juicy grilled chicken, ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with a tasty balsamic glaze.
It’s like summer on a plate! I love how quick and simple it is to whip up. Just grill the chicken, toss everything together, and savor the deliciousness—perfect for a busy weeknight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this salad because they cook evenly on the grill. If you want something different, you can use chicken thighs or even turkey breasts!
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps the seasonings stick. If you’re out, you could use avocado oil or canola oil. Both work well for grilling.
Fresh Mozzarella: The creaminess of fresh mozzarella is essential. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with sliced mozzarella from the store. Just avoid using shredded cheese as it won’t melt the same.
Balsamic Glaze: This adds a sweet tang. If you don’t have it, you can create your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens. Honey or maple syrup can also be added for sweetness!
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here are some tips to get it just right:
- Preheat your grill well. A hot grill ensures a good sear and helps the chicken cook evenly.
- Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. This helps it cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t flip the chicken too much! Let it cook for 6-7 minutes on one side before flipping to get nice grill marks.
Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Time Estimate
This delicious Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of grilling time. Altogether, you can have this fresh meal ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for a quick dinner!
Instructions
1. Preheat the Grill
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a nice sear on your chicken and helps it cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Seasoning
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will add fantastic flavor to the chicken!
3. Season the Chicken
Brush both sides of each chicken breast with the olive oil mixture. Make sure they’re well-coated, as this will keep them moist while grilling.
4. Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on the grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked (the juices should run clear). If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Add Mozzarella and Tomatoes
During the last 2 minutes of grilling, add a slice of mozzarella and a slice of tomato on top of each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to help the cheese melt perfectly.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and place it on serving plates. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with fresh basil. Serve warm, and enjoy your flavorful Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad!
FAQ
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
How Can I Make This Recipe Low-Carb?
To make this dish lower in carbs, simply skip the balsamic glaze, which is high in sugar. You can enjoy the grilled chicken with fresh basil and tomatoes for a refreshing taste!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on a skillet until warmed through. Try this salad cold for a delicious lunch option!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes! Marinating the chicken in the olive oil, garlic powder, and oregano mixture overnight will enhance the flavor. Just remember to bring the chicken to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking.
