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This easy Chicken Caprese recipe is the ultimate summertime dinner for gatherings outdoors or relaxed family meals. Juicy chicken is topped with melty mozzarella and finished with a bright tomato basil salad, allowing you to enjoy classic Caprese flavors in a hearty main dish that comes together in about thirty minutes.
The first time I made this was with basil picked from my garden in July and it tasted like a little European vacation on my backyard table.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Boneless pieces provide protein and act as a canvas for all the fresh toppings. Choose ones the same size so they cook evenly
- Olive oil: Helps to keep the chicken juicy and adds richness. Go for a good extra virgin if possible
- Salt and pepper: Essential for building a savory base. Use flaky salt for best results
- Garlic powder or fresh garlic: Layers in flavor. Fresh cloves add a sharper taste while powder is convenient
- Lemon zest: Offers brightness and cuts through the richness. Use unwaxed lemons for easy zesting
- Fresh thyme or oregano: Brings an herby note. Thyme is subtle, oregano is bolder. Choose what matches your mood
- Fresh mozzarella ball: Delivers that signature melt with a creamy bite. Look for mozzarella packed in water for best texture or substitute tangy goat cheese for something different
- Cherry or grape tomatoes: For the salad, these burst with sweetness. Choose ripe tomatoes that feel heavy and smell fragrant
- Fresh basil: Adds authentic Caprese flavor. Stack leaves and slice for beautiful green ribbons
- Balsamic vinegar: Contributes a touch of sweetness and acidity. Aged balsamic brings an even deeper flavor
- Balsamic glaze (optional): For drizzling. Gives a sweet savory finish
- Basil pesto (optional): For garnish. Adds a punch of herby richness. Homemade or store-bought both work
Choose all herbs and greens as fresh as possible and slice tomatoes just before preparing for best taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Chicken:
- Pound out chicken breasts to an even three fourths inch thickness. Place them in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil until lightly coated then sprinkle evenly with salt pepper and garlic powder. Add lemon zest and thyme tossing to coat every piece well so the flavor is locked in.
- Grill or Sear the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill to medium high or heat a large skillet with a little oil over medium high. Lay the chicken on the hot surface cover and let cook for about five to six minutes to develop golden grill or sear marks.
- Turn and Finish Cooking:
- Flip each chicken breast cover again and cook another five to six minutes dropping the heat if it browns too quickly. Keep going until the thickest part reads one hundred sixty degrees on a thermometer.
- Add Melty Mozzarella:
- As soon as the chicken is cooked through lay one mozzarella slice on each piece. Shroud with a lid or cover letting the cheese melt gently for about three to four minutes. Watch closely so it turns soft but does not spill off.
- Make the Tomato Basil Salad:
- In a medium bowl place halved tomatoes basil ribbons minced garlic olive oil balsamic vinegar salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine. To make basil ribbons just stack leaves roll them like a cigar then slice thinly.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Transfer chicken breasts to a platter and spoon a generous amount of the tomato salad over each. Serve right away for the creamiest cheese. If desired drizzle with balsamic glaze or pesto for extra flavor.
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There is something so joyful about slicing through creamy mozzarella and fresh garden basil The way the cheese melts over the hot chicken always reminds me of the smiles at our summer cookouts especially when everyone reaches for second helpings right off the platter
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days For best results keep the tomato salad separate or spoon it over just before eating so nothing becomes soggy If the cheese firms up simply reheat gently until just warm
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap goat cheese for mozzarella to give the dish a tangy twist Use boneless thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness For herbs mix in fresh parsley or tarragon if you want more complexity And if fresh tomatoes are out of season cherry tomatoes from the store are a good backup
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Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken over a bed of arugula or alongside roasted potatoes Crisp bread makes a great side to soak up the juices Or make a big platter adding grilled zucchini for a more colorful presentation This dish pairs well with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon
A Bit of History
Caprese salad comes from the Italian island of Capri where the combination of tomato mozzarella and basil represents the colors of the Italian flag This dish transforms the beloved salad into a main course so you get all those classic flavors in a heartier form perfect for when you want comfort food with freshness
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I keep chicken breasts tender?
Pounding the chicken to even thickness and not overcooking ensures juicy, tender results. Monitor internal temperature for best texture.
- → Can I use a skillet instead of a grill?
Yes, pan-searing in a large skillet over medium-high heat delivers a deliciously browned crust and melty cheese finish.
- → What cheese can replace mozzarella?
Soft goat cheese or even provolone make excellent alternatives for a creamy, flavorful topping.
- → How can I make the dish ahead of time?
Marinate the chicken and prepare the tomato salad in advance. Grill and assemble just before serving for the best taste.
- → What are good optional garnishes?
A drizzle of balsamic glaze or dollops of basil pesto accentuate the dish’s fresh, summery flavors beautifully.