This Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad mixes juicy grilled chicken with fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s a simple and colorful dish that looks as good as it tastes!
I love making this salad on warm days. The grilled chicken is always a hit, and the fresh flavors remind me of summer. Plus, it’s so quick to whip up – just grill, chop, and enjoy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts make this salad easy and healthy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use grilled turkey breasts or even grilled tofu for a vegetarian take.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the spices adhere to the chicken. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil or canola oil work well too. They have higher smoke points, great for grilling!
Fresh Mozzarella: The creamy texture is a perfect match for the other fresh ingredients. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with burrata for a creamier taste or use regular shredded mozzarella, but it won’t be as rich.
Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes are crucial for flavor. If tomatoes aren’t in season, consider using cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
How Do You Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can achieve juicy and flavorful results!
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat; this helps to sear the chicken for that nice grill mark.
- Don’t skip the seasoning! The blend of olive oil and spices creates a delicious crust.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side. Don’t flip too often; let it develop flavor on the grill!
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature is 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness.
Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- Balsamic glaze or reduction, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and seasoning the chicken, then about 20 minutes grilling. It’s a quick, fresh meal that’s perfect for any time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Turn on your grill and set it to medium-high heat. This will ensure your chicken gets those beautiful grill marks and stays juicy!
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir it well until mixed. Brush each chicken breast generously on both sides with this seasoning mix, making sure they’re nicely coated.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Carefully place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on one side. Then flip them over and grill for another 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear. If you have a meat thermometer, it should register at 165°F (75°C).
4. Add the Mozzarella:
During the last few minutes of grilling, add a slice of fresh mozzarella on top of each chicken breast. Close the grill lid and let the cheese melt slightly; this should take about 2-3 minutes.
5. Assemble the Salad:
Once the chicken is cooked and the cheese is melted, remove the chicken from the grill. Top each piece with a slice of tomato and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves for aromatic flavor.
6. Drizzle and Serve:
Finally, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top for that tangy finish. Serve your vibrant and delicious grilled chicken Caprese salad immediately and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra flavor and juiciness to the salad. Just cook them for a few more minutes on the grill until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can grill the chicken and prepare the salad components a few hours in advance. Store the cooked chicken in the refrigerator, and assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the grilled chicken and salad components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The chicken will stay good for up to 3 days, while the salad is best consumed within 2 days for maximum freshness.
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Definitely! While fresh mozzarella is traditional, you can also use burrata for an even creamier taste or feta cheese for a tangy twist. Just adjust based on your flavor preference!
