Name: Chicken Caprese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 slices mozzarella cheese; 4 slices tomato; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, sliced; 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons light brown sugar

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Introduction

Chicken Caprese is a simple and flavorful dish that brings together juicy grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, all topped with a sweet and tangy balsamic reduction. Perfect for a light dinner or a summer meal, this recipe is both elegant and easy to prepare.

The dish shows three grilled chicken pieces arranged on a white plate with a white marbled texture underneath. Each chicken piece has a slightly rough, browned grilled surface and is topped with a thick, creamy white layer of melted cheese. On top of the cheese is a bright red tomato slice, with fresh chopped green basil scattered over it. A dark brown balsamic glaze is drizzled over the tomatoes and cheese, adding a shiny texture to the dish. The plate is simple and clean, highlighting the colors and textures of the chicken, cheese, tomato, and herbs. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 slices mozzarella
4 slices tomato
2 tablespoons basil, sliced
Balsamic Reduction:
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons light brown sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Spray the grill with non-stick cooking spray. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook until they are almost fully done, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness.
Step 3: Top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella. Close the grill lid and let the cheese melt for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: While the chicken is finishing, prepare the balsamic reduction. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. Simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes or until the mixture is reduced by half and syrupy.
Step 5: Remove the chicken from the grill. Top each breast with a slice of tomato and the sliced basil. Drizzle generously with the warm balsamic reduction before serving.

Tips & Variations

For an extra smoky flavor, try using a charcoal grill or adding wood chips to your gas grill.
You can substitute fresh mozzarella with burrata for a creamier texture.
Try adding a splash of olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
If you don’t have fresh basil, a teaspoon of dried basil sprinkled after grilling works in a pinch.

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. Add fresh tomato and basil again after reheating, and drizzle with balsamic reduction for the best flavor.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of two grilled chicken breasts on a white plate, each topped with a melted layer of white cheese. On top of the cheese, there are thick, bright red tomato slices with a glossy texture, drizzled with balsamic glaze that adds a dark, shiny contrast. Fresh green basil leaves, roughly chopped, are scattered on the tomatoes. Under the chicken, there are fresh dark green spinach leaves lying flat on the plate. The background is a white marbled surface, and the overall look is fresh and colorful. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the balsamic reduction ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the balsamic reduction a day in advance. Store it in a small jar or container at room temperature and reheat gently before drizzling over the chicken.

What if I don’t have a grill?

You can cook the chicken breasts in a skillet or oven. Sear them in a hot pan with a bit of oil until nearly cooked through, then broil or bake topped with mozzarella to melt the cheese before adding the tomato and basil.