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Flavorful Caprese Grilled Chicken Recipe Easy Homemade with Balsamic Reduction

caprese grilled chicken - featured image

A quick and flavorful grilled chicken topped with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and a tangy balsamic reduction glaze. Perfect for a fresh, satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • 2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
  • About 12 fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pour 1/2 cup (120 ml) of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until thickened to a syrupy consistency, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  2. Pat dry chicken breasts. Brush lightly with olive oil and rub in minced garlic, dried Italian herbs (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Oil the grates lightly if using an outdoor grill.
  4. Grill chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, flipping once, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and chicken is juicy with grill marks.
  5. During the last 2 minutes of grilling, top each chicken breast with slices of fresh mozzarella and tomato. Close the grill lid or cover the grill pan to allow cheese to melt slightly.
  6. Remove chicken from grill and arrange on a serving platter. Scatter fresh basil leaves over the top and drizzle generously with the cooled balsamic reduction.

Notes

For best results, pound chicken breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking. Let grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy. Add mozzarella and tomato near the end of grilling to prevent sogginess. Watch balsamic reduction carefully to avoid burning. Marinate chicken for 30 minutes for extra flavor but avoid longer marinating to prevent mushy texture. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and taste better after a day.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese grilled chicken, balsamic reduction, grilled chicken recipe, easy dinner, fresh mozzarella, summer grilling, Italian chicken