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Fresh Grilled Chicken Caprese with Balsamic Glaze

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A quick and easy grilled chicken recipe topped with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for summer dinners, BBQs, or light lunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz / 170 g each), pounded to even thickness
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or fresh chopped herbs like rosemary and thyme
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
  • 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • Fresh basil leaves, a handful, torn or left whole
  • ½ cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
  • Optional garnishes: flaky sea salt, fresh ground black pepper, extra basil leaves

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour over the chicken breasts, coating evenly. Let them marinate at room temperature for 20 minutes or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
  2. While the chicken marinates, pour balsamic vinegar and brown sugar into a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it reduce gently until thickened and syrupy, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  3. Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat (about 400°F / 205°C). Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
  4. Place chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, turning once. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. While chicken cooks, slice tomatoes and mozzarella into even rounds. Tear fresh basil leaves into bite-sized pieces.
  6. Once the chicken is off the grill, let it rest for a few minutes. Then layer tomato slices, mozzarella, and basil evenly on top of each breast. Drizzle generously with the balsamic glaze.
  7. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt and freshly ground pepper over the top. Serve immediately.

Notes

If balsamic glaze thickens too much upon cooling, gently warm it before drizzling. Rest chicken after grilling to keep it juicy. Pounding chicken breasts to even thickness ensures uniform cooking. Use a meat thermometer for best results. Assemble Caprese topping just before serving to keep basil fresh and mozzarella from melting.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, caprese, balsamic glaze, easy dinner, summer recipe, healthy, quick meal

Find it online: https://rowanrecipes.com/fresh-grilled-chicken-caprese-recipe-easy-perfect-balsamic-glaze-meal/