Grilled Bruschetta Chicken Caprese is a delicious and fresh dish that combines grilled chicken with the classic flavors of a Caprese salad. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner. The vibrant combination of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella makes each bite a delight.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Grilled Bruschetta Chicken Caprese is a great choice for several reasons. It is healthy, packed with protein, and includes fresh ingredients that burst with flavor. This meal is also relatively easy to prepare and can impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the tastes of summer all year round.
How to Make Grilled Bruschetta Chicken Caprese
Ingredients
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 slices whole milk mozzarella
- 3 roma tomatoes (diced)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella (chopped, I used Pearl size)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Directions
For Chicken:
- In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring it to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-15 minutes. Set aside.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture onto the chicken breasts.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Remove from the grill.
For the Caprese Bruschetta:
- In another bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, fresh mozzarella, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and balsamic vinegar. Mix gently.
Assemble:
- Place the grilled chicken on a plate. Top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella and then spoon the Caprese mixture on top.
How to Serve Grilled Bruschetta Chicken Caprese
Serve the Grilled Bruschetta Chicken Caprese warm. It goes well with a side salad or some garlic bread. The balsamic reduction adds an extra touch of sweetness and richness that complements the dish beautifully.
How to Store Grilled Bruschetta Chicken Caprese
To store the leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy it cold as a salad topping.
Tips to Make Grilled Bruschetta Chicken Caprese
- Marinate the chicken for a few hours in the balsamic mixture for added flavor.
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
- If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought balsamic reduction instead of making your own.
Variation
For a twist, you can add avocado slices or replace mozzarella with feta cheese. You could also try using different herbs like mint or parsley for a customized flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work well and add more flavor due to their higher fat content.
2. Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can grill the chicken and prepare the Caprese topping in advance. Just assemble it before serving to keep everything fresh.
3. What can I serve with Grilled Bruschetta Chicken Caprese?
It pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even pasta for a complete meal.
Enjoy your cooking and impress everyone with this delightful dish!
Grilled Bruschetta Chicken Caprese
Ingredients
For the balsamic reduction
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
For the chicken
- 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Caprese mixture
- 4 slices whole milk mozzarella
- 3 pieces roma tomatoes (diced)
- ¼ cup fresh basil (chopped)
- ½ cup fresh mozzarella (chopped, Pearl size)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Instructions
Prepare Balsamic Reduction
- In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring it to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-15 minutes. Set aside.
Grill Chicken
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture onto the chicken breasts.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Remove from the grill.
Prepare Caprese Bruschetta
- In another bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, fresh mozzarella, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and balsamic vinegar. Mix gently.
Assemble
- Place the grilled chicken on a plate. Top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella and then spoon the Caprese mixture on top.
