Dinner

Caprese Chicken Recipe

Name: Caprese Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts (5-7 oz each, pounded to even thickness); 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 tsp sea or kosher salt; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp cracked black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; 8 oz fresh mozzarella (sliced into 8 even pieces); 2 vine-ripened tomatoes (sliced into 1/2 inch slices); Fresh basil (to taste); Aged balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze (to taste)

Byrami Hayes January 16, 2026January 16, 2026

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Introduction

This Caprese Chicken recipe brings the fresh flavors of a classic Italian salad to a hearty, satisfying main dish. Juicy grilled chicken topped with melted mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic makes for a simple yet elegant meal perfect for any occasion.

The image shows several pieces of chicken topped with three layers: the first layer is white melted mozzarella cheese, the second layer is bright red tomato slices, and the third layer is fresh green basil leaves scattered on top. The chicken pieces are drizzled with a dark balsamic glaze and sprinkled with coarse black pepper. The food is served on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface, with some basil leaves and balsamic drops around the chicken for decoration. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts (5-7 oz each, pounded to even thickness)
2 tsp Italian seasoning
2 tsp sea or kosher salt
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp cracked black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
8 oz fresh mozzarella (sliced into 8 even pieces)
2 vine-ripened tomatoes (sliced into 1/2″ slices)
Fresh basil (to taste)
Aged balsamic or balsamic glaze (to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Place one chicken breast on a sheet of parchment paper. Fold the paper over the chicken and use a rolling pin to pound it to an even thickness just under 1 inch. Repeat with the remaining breasts.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine Italian seasoning, sea salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir well to mix.
Step 3: Brush each chicken breast with olive oil, then sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly on both sides.
Step 4: Heat a grill or grill pan over high heat. Grill the chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until an instant-read thermometer registers 155°F.
Step 5: Place 2 slices of fresh mozzarella on each chicken breast. Continue grilling for 3 minutes more, until the cheese melts and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 6: Transfer the chicken to plates. Top each breast with 2-3 tomato slices and sprinkle with fresh basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Drizzle with aged balsamic or balsamic glaze just before serving. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
Substitute fresh mozzarella with burrata for extra creaminess.
For a smoky flavor, add a touch of smoked paprika to the seasoning blend.
Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover Caprese Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave until warmed through, adding fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic again before serving to brighten the flavors.

How to Serve

A white plate holds four pieces of grilled chicken breast, each topped with one thick white layer of mozzarella cheese, two bright red tomato slices, and scattered green basil leaves. Dark balsamic glaze is drizzled over the top, adding contrast with its glossy, deep brown texture. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a small white jug filled with balsamic glaze nearby and a green cloth partially visible at the bottom right. Some basil leaves and black pepper flakes are sprinkled around the plate for extra detail. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake the Caprese Chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, adding the mozzarella and continuing to bake until melted and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh basil?

If fresh basil is unavailable, you can substitute with fresh spinach or arugula for a different but still fresh flavor. Dried basil is less ideal but can be used sparingly in the seasoning mix.