Let’s get one thing straight: Grilled Chicken Caprese isn’t just a salad thrown on meat. It’s a full-on flavor bomb that brings the vibes of a breezy Italian summer straight to your backyard grill.
This is my ride-or-die grilled chicken recipe—simple enough for a Tuesday night, but fancy-feeling enough to wow guests at a weekend cookout.
The first time I made this homemade Grilled Chicken Caprese recipe, I knew I’d found a keeper. Perfectly juicy grilled chicken, topped with creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a tangy balsamic drizzle? Yes, please. It’s like your favorite caprese salad went on vacation and came back with grill marks.
Whether you’re hunting for an easy grilled chicken dinner, something fresh and healthy, or just a reason to fire up the grill—this one checks every box.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken Caprese
- Fast & Flavorful: From fridge to fork in 30 minutes or less.
- Summer on a Plate: Bursting with fresh, bright ingredients.
- Healthy but Satisfying: High in protein, low in carbs.
- Easy to Customize: Go dairy-free, low-sodium, or keto with simple swaps.
- Dinner Party Worthy: It looks fancy, but it’s so easy.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese (Step-by-Step)
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl or zip-top bag, mix balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
Tip: Short on time? Even a quick 10-minute soak will infuse big flavor thanks to the vinegar and garlic combo!
2. Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill (or grill pan) over medium-high. Brush with oil to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken
Place marinated chicken on the grill and cook 6–8 minutes per side, or until internal temp hits 165°F. You want those gorgeous grill marks and juicy centers!
Pro Tip: Don’t move the chicken too early—let it sear for at least 3 minutes for max char and flavor.
4. Add the Mozzarella
During the last 1–2 minutes of grilling, top each chicken breast with a slice (or two!) of mozzarella. Close the lid to let it melt slightly.
5. Top with Tomatoes & Basil
Once off the grill, layer tomato slices and fresh basil over the melty mozzarella. It’s basically edible artwork.
6. Finish with Balsamic Glaze
Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top like the kitchen boss you are. A little flaky salt or cracked pepper? Go for it. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips & Tasty Variations
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap fresh mozzarella with a plant-based cheese or skip it altogether—the flavors still shine.
- Add Avocado: Creamy avocado slices add richness and heart-healthy fats.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Grill a batch of chicken and store toppings separately. Assemble fresh for lunch all week!
- Balsamic Hack: No glaze? Simmer 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar until reduced by half—it’ll thicken naturally.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for heat-lovers.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Fridge: Store chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Chicken freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months (skip the tomato/basil).
- To Reheat: Warm chicken in the microwave or a skillet, then top fresh with tomatoes and basil to bring it back to life.
What to Serve with Grilled Chicken Caprese
Looking for the perfect pairing? Try these:
- Side Salad: Arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a simple Caesar.
- Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast: For soaking up all that juicy tomato and glaze.
- Wine: A chilled rosé, Pinot Grigio, or sparkling water with lemon.
- Dessert: Finish with fresh berries or a scoop of lemon sorbet.
Grilled Chicken Caprese is one of those rare recipes that checks all the boxes—healthy, stunning, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or just need a weeknight win, this is one of those keeper recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again.
Have your own twist? Add avocado? Use burrata instead of mozzarella? Drop your take in the comments!
And if you make this dish, tag @dietwaiter—I love seeing your kitchen creations!
Grilled Chicken Caprese
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan (gas, charcoal, or indoor)
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer (for perfectly cooked chicken)
- Basting brush (optional but helpful)
- Cutting board & sharp knife
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Caprese Topping:
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella sliced into rounds
- 2 large ripe tomatoes heirloom or Roma, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze store-bought or homemade
- Extra olive oil for drizzling optional
Optional Garnishes:
- Flaky sea salt
- Cracked black pepper
- Red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- In a bowl or zip-top bag, mix balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
- Tip: Short on time? Even a quick 10-minute soak will infuse big flavor thanks to the vinegar and garlic combo!
- Heat your grill (or grill pan) over medium-high. Brush with oil to prevent sticking.
- Place marinated chicken on the grill and cook 6–8 minutes per side, or until internal temp hits 165°F. You want those gorgeous grill marks and juicy centers!
- Pro Tip: Don’t move the chicken too early—let it sear for at least 3 minutes for max char and flavor.
- During the last 1–2 minutes of grilling, top each chicken breast with a slice (or two!) of mozzarella. Close the lid to let it melt slightly.
- Once off the grill, layer tomato slices and fresh basil over the melty mozzarella. It’s basically edible artwork.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top like the kitchen boss you are. A little flaky salt or cracked pepper? Go for it. Serve immediately.
