Grilled Chicken Caprese

Featured in Satisfying Main Courses.

Savor the vibrant combination of juicy grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, and ripe tomatoes, balanced with aromatic basil and finished with a homemade balsamic reduction. Simple ingredients and quick steps make this dish perfect for busy evenings or casual gatherings. Grilling the chicken brings out a smoky flavor, while the creamy cheese and tangy glaze add appealing contrast. Serve straight from the grill for maximum freshness and enjoy a colorful, satisfying summer meal that can easily be prepared in under thirty minutes.

Barbara Chef
Updated on Tue, 01 Jul 2025 00:06:19 GMT
Chicken with tomatoes and cheese. Pin it
Chicken with tomatoes and cheese. | gracefulflavors.com

This grilled chicken caprese is everything you want in a quick dinner. Tender grilled chicken is topped with creamy mozzarella, juicy tomato slices, fresh basil, and finished with a tangy homemade balsamic reduction. It is vibrant and packed with Italian flavors, and it comes together fast enough for any weeknight.

Every time I make this I am amazed at how something so simple can impress everyone at the table. The homemade balsamic drizzle brings the restaurant vibes right to my kitchen. My husband always lingers by the grill when he knows this is what’s for dinner.

Ingredients

  • Chicken breasts: Choose plump and even pieces for the best grilling This will help the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy
  • Italian seasoning: This brings a blend of herbs that gives that classic caprese flavor Look for a blend with oregano and basil
  • Garlic powder and onion powder: Both add savory flavor Pick a fine powder so it coats the chicken evenly
  • Salt and pepper: Add to taste Always season both sides well for full flavor
  • Mozzarella slices: Pick fresh mozzarella if you can for a delicious creamy melt If using pre sliced make sure it has a mild clean taste
  • Tomato slices: Tomatoes should be ripe but firm Heirloom or Roma tomatoes work beautifully
  • Fresh basil: Slice just before using to keep the leaves vibrant and aromatic
  • Balsamic vinegar: The base for your reduction A good quality vinegar will taste mellow and sweet after simmering
  • Brown sugar: Helps the balsamic thicken and develop a rich tangy sweetness Use light brown for a gentle caramel flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Seasoned Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the seasonings stick well. Sprinkle both sides with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Press gently so the spices adhere.
Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium high heat. Spray the grates with nonstick cooking spray or oil. Place the chicken on the grill and cook each side until golden and mostly cooked through. This usually takes about seven to eight minutes per side depending on thickness. Watch for clear juices from the thickest part.
Melt the Mozzarella:
Near the end of grilling, lay a mozzarella slice on top of each chicken breast. Close the lid so the cheese melts evenly. This takes about two to three minutes. Keep an eye out so the cheese stays gooey, not rubbery.
Top with Tomato and Basil:
Remove the chicken from the grill and place immediately on a serving platter. Lay a fresh tomato slice on each chicken breast and scatter sliced basil over the top for that iconic caprese touch.
Make the Balsamic Reduction:
While the chicken cooks, combine balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer on medium low and let it bubble away until it reduces by about half and coats the back of a spoon. This concentrates the flavors, giving you a sweet and tangy glaze.
Serve and Enjoy:
Drizzle the warm balsamic reduction over the finished chicken and serve right away. The sauce should glisten and cling to each topping. Every bite bursts with flavor.
Chicken with tomatoes and basil. Pin it
Chicken with tomatoes and basil. | gracefulflavors.com

My favorite part of this dish is always the fresh basil the way it smells while I am slicing it for topping makes the kitchen feel like summer in Italy My kids love layering on the toppings themselves and we always laugh about who can get the most basil leaves on a single piece

Storage Tips

Leftover chicken caprese can be cooled completely then stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently so the cheese stays soft and not tough If you have extra balsamic reduction let it cool and refrigerate in a jar for drizzling on veggies or salads

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs if that is what you have on hand Just cook a bit longer to ensure they are fully cooked If you cannot find fresh mozzarella provolone or even thinly sliced fontina gives a nice melt For the basil do not be afraid to use fresh baby spinach if you are out of basil

A plate of food with tomatoes and cheese. Pin it
A plate of food with tomatoes and cheese. | gracefulflavors.com

Serving Suggestions

Grilled chicken caprese pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a side of warm crusty bread For something a little extra serve with roasted potatoes or a mix of grilled seasonal vegetables

Cultural and Historical Context

Caprese is inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean especially the classic Italian caprese salad The colors mirror the Italian flag with white mozzarella red tomatoes and green basil Bringing those same flavors to grilled chicken is a fresh twist that stays true to the dish's roots in simplicity and quality ingredients

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of chicken is best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best as they cook evenly and pair well with the Caprese toppings.

→ How do I achieve juicy grilled chicken?

Season well and avoid overcooking. Grill over medium-high heat and remove from the grill just as it's cooked through.

→ Can I use store-bought balsamic reduction?

Yes, but preparing a homemade version with balsamic vinegar and brown sugar enhances the flavor and freshness.

→ Which cheese alternative works if I don't have mozzarella?

Sliced provolone or burrata can be used as a substitute, though mozzarella offers the classic Caprese taste.

→ Is it possible to grill indoors?

Absolutely, just use an indoor grill pan or a broiler to cook the chicken while following the same steps.

Grilled Chicken Caprese

Tender grilled chicken topped with melted mozzarella, basil, ripe tomato and a rich balsamic reduction.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Barbara

Category: Hearty Mains

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Italian

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Main

01 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
03 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
04 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
05 Salt, to taste
06 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
07 4 slices mozzarella cheese
08 4 slices ripe tomato
09 2 tablespoons fresh basil, sliced

→ Balsamic Reduction

10 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
11 2 tablespoons light brown sugar

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season both sides of chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 02

Lightly grease grill grates with non-stick cooking spray. Place chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6–7 minutes per side or until nearly cooked through.

Step 03

Arrange one slice of mozzarella cheese atop each chicken breast. Close the grill lid and allow cheese to melt for 2–3 minutes.

Step 04

Remove the chicken from the grill. Top each breast with a slice of tomato and a generous amount of sliced fresh basil.

Step 05

In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and light brown sugar. Simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half. Keep warm.

Step 06

Drizzle the warm balsamic reduction evenly over the assembled chicken. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  1. Allow chicken to rest for 2 minutes before topping to preserve juiciness.

Tools You'll Need

  • Outdoor grill or grill pan
  • Small saucepan
  • Tongs
  • Knife

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (mozzarella cheese).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 402
  • Total Fat: 12 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 14 g
  • Protein: 55 g