Name: Caprese Grilled Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 2 tablespoons Italian Seasoning; 1 teaspoon Kosher salt; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 cups halved cherry or grape tomatoes; 1 large shallot, (halved and thinly sliced); ½ cup thinly sliced basil leaves; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; Pinch of salt and pepper; Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1/3 cup Basil Pesto, (storebought or homemade); ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Jump to Recipe

Caprese Grilled Chicken is pure summer magic on a plate: juicy grilled chicken breasts lavished with basil pesto, mozzarella, and a bright, garlicky tomato topping. This recipe packs all the bold flavors and fresh colors of a Caprese salad while turning it into a hearty, satisfying main course. It makes backyard dinners a celebration, yet it’s easy enough for any night when you’re craving something lively, healthy, and comfortingly Italian.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Caprese Grilled Chicken is that every ingredient truly matters. Let’s keep it simple, keep it fresh, and let each component do what it does best—delivering flavor, juiciness, and eye-popping presentation.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Pounded to even thickness for quick, juicy grilling and a perfect base for toppings.
Extra virgin olive oil: Used both in the marinade and for finishing, it’s essential for richness and helps meld all the vibrant flavors.
Balsamic vinegar: Adds tang and a hint of sweetness to both the marinade and tomato topping, giving a classic Italian touch.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brightens the marinade and keeps the chicken lively and fresh-tasting.
Italian seasoning: An herby blend that infuses the chicken with classic Mediterranean aroma and savoriness.
Kosher salt: Essential for bringing out every flavor, both in the marinade and the tomato topping.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds gentle heat and depth to balance the bright ingredients.
Basil pesto (storebought or homemade): A garlicky, herbal sauce that melts an irresistible finish onto the chicken.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey, creamy layer, marrying all the toppings beautifully.
Cherry or grape tomatoes: Halved for juiciness and bright pop of color—the heart of the Caprese topping.
Shallot: Thinly sliced for delicate, sweet onion notes in the topping.
Fresh basil leaves: Sliced thin to create ribbons of color and classic caprese fragrance.
Extra virgin olive oil (for topping): Just a touch enhances the gloss and flavor of the tomato mixture.
Balsamic vinegar (for topping): A finishing drizzle that pulls the entire flavor profile together.
Pinch of salt and pepper (for topping): The most basic seasonings, but absolutely non-negotiable for balance.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who want a little kick in every bite.

How to Make Caprese Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

For Caprese Grilled Chicken that’s juicy all the way through, start by pounding your chicken breasts to an even ½-inch thickness. This easy step ensures everything cooks evenly and soaks up all those tangy, herby flavors. Combine the chicken with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Toss it all together and let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes—the flavors will love you for it.

Step 2: Make the Cherry Tomato Topping

While the chicken marinates, grab a medium bowl and combine halved cherry tomatoes, sliced shallot, lush basil ribbons, a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic, and a pinch of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. Toss everything together gently. This topping adds explosive color, juicy freshness, and is what takes this Caprese Grilled Chicken from great to show-stopping.

Step 3: Prep and Grill the Chicken

Heat your grill to medium-high (about 350-400°F). Oil the grates lightly with a paper towel for those perfect grill marks and so the chicken won’t stick. Lay down those marinated breasts and cook for about 4 minutes per side with the grill covered. You’ll be rewarded with glorious sear marks and the unmistakable aroma of summer grilling.

Step 4: Add Pesto and Cheese

Lower the heat to medium-low. Spoon a generous tablespoon of basil pesto over each chicken breast and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the mozzarella on top and cover the grill again. In just a couple of minutes, the cheese will melt into the pesto and bubble invitingly.

Step 5: Rest and Top with Tomatoes

Once your Caprese Grilled Chicken is perfectly cooked and melty, let it rest for about 4 minutes off the grill. This gives the juices time to settle. Then, just before serving, spoon the luscious tomato topping across the chicken breasts. Each piece becomes its own little caprese celebration.

How to Serve Caprese Grilled Chicken

Caprese Grilled Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A flourish of fresh basil leaves scattered right before serving brings extra color and aroma to your Caprese Grilled Chicken. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of high-quality balsamic glaze provides beautiful contrast and an intense burst of flavor. Sometimes, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can make those fresh ingredients sing even louder.

Side Dishes

This dish loves simple sides! Pair it with a loaf of crusty Italian bread or toasted ciabatta to capture every last drop of those pesto and tomato juices. A light arugula salad, grilled asparagus, or buttery corn on the cob are all natural companions that let the Caprese Grilled Chicken shine as the star.

Creative Ways to Present

Go family-style and serve the chicken sliced on a platter, topped with the tomato mixture and loads of fresh basil, for a dramatic centerpiece. Or, make it casual: pile the chicken and toppings onto toasted brioche buns for unforgettable Caprese Grilled Chicken sandwiches. Mini versions (think chicken sliders or skewers) make a fantastic party appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Caprese Grilled Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the tomato topping separate if possible so everything stays fresh and vibrant. This way, the flavors remain bright and the chicken juicy when you’re ready for round two.

Freezing

While Caprese Grilled Chicken is best enjoyed freshly made, you can freeze the cooked, untopped chicken breasts for up to 2 months. Let them cool completely before wrapping tightly in foil and placing in a freezer-safe bag. Leave off the cheese and tomato mixture until you’re ready to reheat and serve.

Reheating

To bring Caprese Grilled Chicken back to life, reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of water, or in a 325°F oven until warmed through. Top with freshly made tomato mixture and more basil pesto just before serving to recapture all the original freshness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring a bit more richness and remain wonderfully juicy. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the grilling time slightly, as thighs are usually a little thicker and fattier than breasts.

What can I use instead of mozzarella?

Shredded provolone or fontina both melt beautifully and provide a delicious twist. Even slices of fresh mozzarella work, though you may want to pat them dry so things don’t get too watery.

Is it possible to make Caprese Grilled Chicken indoors?

Definitely! A grill pan or cast-iron skillet on the stovetop works wonders. You can even use an electric countertop grill. Just watch for that gorgeous golden sear and adjust cook times as needed.

Can I make the tomato topping ahead of time?

The tomato topping is best made fresh, but you can prep it a couple of hours in advance and keep it chilled. Add the basil just before serving to keep it at its aromatic best.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken’s juices should run clear, and the internal temperature should read 165°F on a meat thermometer. Since you’ve pounded the breasts to an even thickness, they cook quickly and evenly—no guessing games!

Final Thoughts

If you love those clean, classic caprese flavors, Caprese Grilled Chicken is about to become your new favorite way to enjoy them. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself on a random Tuesday, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Grab those juicy tomatoes and fire up the grill—summer’s never tasted so good!

Caprese Grilled Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 8 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Delicious and flavorful Caprese Grilled Chicken recipe that combines juicy chicken breasts with a fresh tomato topping, basil pesto, and melty mozzarella cheese.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken breasts between parchment paper, pound to ½-inch thickness. Marinate in olive oil, balsamic, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for 15 minutes.
Make the Tomato Topping: Combine all topping ingredients in a bowl and set aside.
Grill the Chicken: Oil grill grates. Grill chicken for 4 minutes per side. Top with pesto and mozzarella. Cover and cook until cheese melts, about 2 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy: Spoon tomato mixture over chicken before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Italian