This Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad is a bright and fresh meal. With juicy grilled chicken, ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, it’s a perfect summer dish!
I love how quick this salad is to make! Just grill the chicken, layer it with the yummy ingredients, and enjoy. It makes my taste buds dance! 💃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to here for easy grilling. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use chicken thighs or even turkey breast.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps keep the chicken moist. If olive oil isn’t available, you can use avocado oil or even melted butter for a different taste.
Garlic Powder: A quick way to add garlic flavor. Fresh minced garlic works just as well; use about one clove for a fresher taste.
Fresh Mozzarella: The creamy texture of fresh mozzarella is perfect. If you can’t find it, sliced provolone or even regular mozzarella will work, though the flavor will be a bit different.
Balsamic Glaze: This adds a sweet tang. You can replace it with red wine vinegar mixed with a little honey or sugar to achieve a similar flavor.
How Do I Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you can get it just right!
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures your chicken sears properly.
- Don’t rush the process! Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side without moving it too much; this helps develop those nice grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (74°C) is what you want to reach.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to keep it juicy.
How to Make Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced or chopped
- Balsamic glaze or reduction for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to grill the chicken. So, in total, expect roughly 30-35 minutes to whip up this delightful salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This is important for getting those nice grill marks and cooking the chicken evenly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix it well! Then, brush this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts—this adds flavor and keeps them juicy while grilling.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and nice grill marks. Flip them only once to let them brown nicely!
4. Add the Cheese and Tomatoes:
During the last 2 minutes of grilling, place 2 slices of mozzarella on top of each chicken breast. Add a slice of tomato on top of the cheese. Close the grill lid to help the cheese melt a bit.
5. Serve It Up:
Once the chicken is cooked and the cheese has melted, carefully remove the chicken from the grill and place it on serving plates. Drizzle some balsamic glaze on top of each piece to add a sweet and tangy kick.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finally, sprinkle the fresh basil leaves over the chicken. Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh, vibrant Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can replace the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even turkey breast if you prefer a leaner meat. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Mozzarella?
If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, you can use regular mozzarella cheese or provolone for a different flavor. Just slice it thinly so it melts well on the grill!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stove to prevent drying out. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, so reassemble it just before eating!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can grill the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just assemble the salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze right before serving to keep everything crisp and flavorful!
