This Easy Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken is a tasty combo of juicy grilled chicken, fresh peaches, mozzarella, and basil. It’s like summer on a plate! 🍑
You can’t go wrong with that sweet peach flavor contrasting with the creamy cheese. I love serving it with a drizzle of balsamic for a pop of flavor! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they grill quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor or tofu for a vegetarian option!
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are key to this dish! If peaches are out of season, you can substitute with ripe nectarines or even grilled pears for a different twist.
Fresh Mozzarella: The creaminess of fresh mozzarella elevates this dish. If you can’t find it, try burrata for an even creamier texture or use regular mozzarella, though it won’t have the same freshness.
Basil: Fresh basil adds so much flavor. If you’re out, fresh mint can be a fun substitute, or you could use a tiny bit of dried oregano in a pinch.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking chicken properly is crucial to get that juicy texture. Here are some tips:
- Brush the chicken with olive oil and season it well – this adds flavor and helps keep it moist.
- Use medium-high heat to get a good sear. This helps lock in juices!
- A digital meat thermometer can help; aim for 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the chicken.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling for at least 5 minutes. This keeps the juices inside!
Easy Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced thinly or chiffonade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze or reduced balsamic vinegar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, depending on your grill. In total, plan for about 30-35 minutes to have this fresh and tasty dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which should be around 400°F (200°C). A hot grill helps to achieve those beautiful grill marks and keeps the chicken juicy!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Take a brush or your hands and coat the chicken breasts evenly with this tasty mixture. This adds flavor and keeps the chicken moist while cooking.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to be nicely charred and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once done, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
4. Grill the Peaches:
While your chicken is resting, place the peach wedges on the grill. Grill them for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they are slightly softened and have delicious grill marks. The heat will enhance their sweetness, making them a perfect addition!
5. Assemble Your Dish:
Now it’s time to put everything together! On each grilled chicken breast, layer the slices of fresh mozzarella, followed by the warm grilled peach wedges. Top it all off with a generous sprinkle of fresh basil for that herbaceous touch.
6. Add the Finishing Touch:
Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic glaze over your assembled dish. This adds a sweet, tangy flavor that complements the chicken and peaches beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken immediately. Enjoy the wonderful combination of smoky grilled chicken, fresh juicy peaches, and creamy mozzarella—it’s a dish that will surely impress!
FAQ for Easy Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
While fresh is best for flavor and texture, you can use frozen chicken if needed. Just make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before marinating and grilling. Pat it dry to achieve a good sear!
What If I Don’t Have Balsamic Glaze?
No problem! If balsamic glaze isn’t available, you can use regular balsamic vinegar, but it will taste a bit sharper. For a sweeter option, reduce balsamic vinegar on the stove until it thickens slightly, or use a sprinkle of honey instead for a similar sweetness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Enjoy the leftover flavors in a salad or wrap!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can! Prepare the chicken and marinade a day in advance, and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. Just make sure to cook it fresh for the best flavor and texture.
