This colorful salad is a tasty blend of juicy grilled chicken, fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s perfect for a light meal or a side dish!
I love how quick this salad comes together. Just grill the chicken, toss it with the fresh veggies, and add a drizzle of balsamic! Yum, a summer favorite for sure. 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless is a must for this recipe. If you’re looking for a quicker option, pre-cooked grilled chicken strips work great too! For a twist, try turkey breast or even grilled eggplant for a vegetarian version.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for flavor. If you need a substitute, avocado oil or grapeseed oil work well in cooking. Just remember, it should have a high smoke point if grilling!
Fresh Mozzarella: I love the creaminess of fresh mozzarella. If you can’t find it, bocconcini or even shredded mozzarella will work, but the texture will change a bit. You could also use a dairy-free cheese if you’re vegan.
Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds sweetness. If you don’t have any, you can reduce balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until thickened, or use a sprinkle of vinegar with a touch of honey for sweetness.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling can be tricky, but with some guidelines, you’ll get juicy chicken every time! Here’s how to master it:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. A hot grill seals in juices.
- Brush your seasoned chicken with oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, and only flip once for good grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (75°C) is ideal!
Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes off the grill to keep it juicy, then top with mozzarella and tomatoes for a delicious twist on a classic salad!
Easy Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced or torn
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze or reduction
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and 15 minutes of cooking. In total, you should set aside around 25 minutes to enjoy a delicious Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help to sear the chicken well and lock in those juices!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use a brush to spread this mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts so they are well-coated with flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and have beautiful grill marks. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Add the Mozzarella:
In the last 2-3 minutes of grilling, layer one or two slices of fresh mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast. Close the grill lid so the cheese melts nicely!
5. Assemble the Salad:
Once grilled, remove the chicken from the grill and place it on a serving plate. Top each breast with a slice or two of fresh tomato and sprinkle with torn basil leaves.
6. Drizzle with Balsamic:
Finish by drizzling the balsamic glaze over the chicken. If you like, add some extra basil for that fresh touch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm and savor the delicious medley of flavors!
Can I Use Different Proteins for This Salad?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp, turkey breast, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave for a quick warm-up or enjoy it cold in a salad.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and slice the veggies in advance. Just keep the basil and balsamic glaze separate until serving to maintain freshness. Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours!
What Can I Serve This Salad With?
This salad pairs well with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of mixed greens. It also complements a light pasta dish or can be enjoyed as a standalone meal!
