Grilled Chicken Caprese with Balsamic Glaze Recipe

If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful dinner that combines juicy grilled chicken with classic Italian flavors, you’re going to adore this Grilled Chicken Caprese with Balsamic Glaze Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that looks fancy but is actually super simple to make—and every bite bursts with the perfect balance of smoky, cheesy, tangy, and herbaceous goodness. Seriously, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

The magic of this Grilled Chicken Caprese with Balsamic Glaze Recipe lies in the simplicity and freshness of the ingredients. Each component plays a specific role—juicy chicken, melty mozzarella, fresh basil, and that sweet-savory balsamic reduction all work in harmony. Picking ripe, firm tomatoes and fresh basil really makes a difference, so don’t skip quality shopping here!

• Chicken breasts: The main protein—opt for even-sized, boneless breasts for uniform cooking on the grill.
• Italian seasoning: Adds a subtle herbaceous mix without overpowering the fresh Caprese flavors.
• Garlic powder & onion powder: These powders give a subtle savory base that pairs perfectly with the fresh mozzarella.
• Mozzarella slices: Use fresh mozzarella if possible—it melts beautifully and tastes creamy.
• Tomato slices: Vine-ripened tomatoes bring juiciness and bright acidity that turns this into a Caprese-inspired dish.
• Fresh basil: The herb that makes it Caprese! Slice it thin or tear it by hand for maximum fragrant flavor.
• Balsamic vinegar: Simmered with brown sugar to create a luscious, syrupy glaze that ties all the flavors together.
• Light brown sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to balance the vinegar’s tang.
• Salt & pepper: Essential seasoning to bring out the natural flavors.

Make It Your Way

One of the reasons I keep coming back to this grilled chicken Caprese recipe is that it’s so flexible. Feel free to tailor it to what you have on hand or what suits your palate. Whether you want it lighter, richer, or packed with extra veggies, this recipe welcomes your creativity.

• Variation: Sometimes I swap chicken breasts for thin-cut chicken thighs—they stay juicy and add a bit more flavor.
• Dietary tweak: If you need a dairy-free version, try using a vegan cheese or omit the mozzarella entirely and add avocado slices instead.
• Extra veggies: Grilled zucchini or eggplant slices layered beneath the mozzarella add great texture and bulk for a heartier meal.
• Spice it up: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top if you want a little kick, which complements the balsamic beautifully.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Grilled Chicken Caprese with Balsamic Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken Like a Pro

I start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel—that helps the seasoning stick and gives a better sear. Then, I sprinkle them evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and a good pinch of salt and pepper on both sides. Trust me, seasoning well upfront is the key to flavorful chicken through and through.

Step 2: Get That Grill Hot and Ready

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Spray the grates with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. You’ll want the grill nicely heated so you get those attractive sear marks and the smoky flavor I love. If you prefer, a grill pan on the stove works too—just get it really hot.

Step 3: Grill Chicken Until Almost Cooked

Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. You’re aiming for the chicken to be almost cooked through (internal temperature around 160°F) before adding the cheese. Flip carefully so the seasoning stays put. Using a meat thermometer here is a game-changer.

Step 4: Add Mozzarella and Melt

Once the chicken is nearly done, top each piece with a slice of mozzarella. Close the grill lid—the residual heat will gently melt the cheese in about 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning the cheese or drying out the chicken.

Step 5: Make Your Balsamic Glaze

While the chicken is grilling, pour balsamic vinegar and brown sugar into a small saucepan. Simmer over medium-low heat until the volume reduces by half and the mixture is syrupy—this usually takes about 10 minutes. Keep stirring toward the end so it doesn’t scorch. This glaze is the showstopper that brings the dish together!

Step 6: Assemble and Serve Hot

Remove the chicken from the grill and immediately top with fresh tomato slices and basil. Drizzle generously with your homemade balsamic reduction. Serve straight away to enjoy the melty mozzarella and juicy chicken at their best.

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Caprese with Balsamic Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

I usually finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a few extra basil leaves on top. Sometimes, I add a light drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil for an extra layer of richness. Fresh ground black pepper right before serving adds a little spark, too.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs so well with simple sides like a crisp arugula salad, garlic roasted potatoes, or grilled asparagus. If I’m feeling indulgent, a creamy risotto or herb-infused couscous nicely rounds out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I like to slice the chicken and arrange the pieces fan-style on individual plates, topped with tomato and basil. Drizzling the balsamic glaze artistically around the plate makes it feel extra special. Pair with some rustic bread on the side, and watch your guests’ faces light up!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Because of the fresh tomato and basil, I usually store these separately to keep everything from getting soggy, then reassemble when ready to eat.

Freezing

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but if you do freeze the chicken (without the fresh toppings), wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. The balsamic glaze can be frozen separately in an ice cube tray for quick use.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 325°F to keep the chicken juicy and the mozzarella from drying out. Add fresh tomato and basil after warming to keep that Caprese freshness alive.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Chicken Caprese with Balsamic Glaze Recipe is one of those dishes I turn to when I want something fresh, impressive, and downright delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of smoky grilled chicken with melty mozzarella, fresh tomato and basil, and that sticky sweet glaze is pure magic on a plate. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—and that it becomes a favorite in your meal rotation too. Give it a try this week and savor the smiles around your table!

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