Name: Grilled Chicken Caprese Bowl Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Kosher salt and pepper to taste; 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved; 8 ounces mini mozzarella balls; 1 big handful fresh basil, chopped, plus extra for garnish; Balsamic vinaigrette, for drizzling; Balsamic glaze, for drizzling

Jump to Recipe·5.1 from 13 reviews

There is something truly magical about the Grilled Chicken Caprese Bowl that makes it a standout dish for any meal, whether it’s a casual weekday dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. This vibrant bowl brings together juicy grilled chicken, fresh cherry tomatoes, creamy mini mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil, all tied together with the rich, tangy notes of balsamic vinegar and olive oil. The combination is a symphony of flavors and textures that feels fresh, satisfying, and downright delicious. Every bite is a reminder of why simple, quality ingredients prepared with care can create absolute magic on your plate.

Grilled Chicken Caprese Bowl Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, relying on a handful of fresh and pantry staples that shine on their own and blend beautifully together. Every ingredient plays a key role in building the flavors, textures, and colors that make the Grilled Chicken Caprese Bowl such a hit.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, perfect for quick grilling and absorbing marinade flavors.
Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps the chicken stay juicy and tender while grilling.
Balsamic vinegar: Delivers tangy sweetness that brightens up the marinade and drizzle.
Garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the marinade with a punch of aromatic warmth.
Dried basil: Offers a herbaceous depth that complements the fresh basil leaves.
Kosher salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to enhance all the ingredients’ natural taste.
Cherry tomatoes, halved: Provide juicy bursts of flavor and a pop of vibrant color.
Mini mozzarella balls: Add creamy, mild richness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes and vinegar.
Fresh basil, chopped: Bright and fragrant, it’s the signature herb in this Caprese-inspired bowl.
Balsamic vinaigrette and glaze for drizzling: Optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of flavor complexity and beautiful presentation.

How to Make Grilled Chicken Caprese Bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Chicken

Start by whisking together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried basil, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and black pepper in a dish or resealable bag. This simple marinade is your flavor powerhouse, infusing the chicken with tangy, herbal, and garlicky goodness. Submerge the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors soak in – and if you have the time, overnight is even better.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken to Perfection

Once your chicken has marinated, heat your grill to the highest setting. You want a hot surface to get those beautiful grill marks and seal in the juices. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, and place the breasts on the grill. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until an internal thermometer reads 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Grilling at high heat caramelizes the marinade a bit and adds a smoky dimension that pairs flawlessly with the fresh Caprese ingredients.

Step 3: Rest and Chop the Chicken

After grilling, it’s crucial to let your chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This step ensures the juices redistribute, keeping every bite tender and moist instead of dry. Then, slice the chicken into bite-sized chunks that’ll be easy to mix into the bowl along with everything else.

Step 4: Assemble the Caprese Salad Base

While the chicken is resting, grab a mixing bowl and combine the halved cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, and a generous handful of chopped fresh basil. Season lightly with salt and pepper. You can dress this mixture with a splash of balsamic vinaigrette or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to add an early burst of sweet acidity and tie the salad flavors together.

Step 5: Combine and Enjoy Your Grilled Chicken Caprese Bowl

Finally, add your chopped grilled chicken to the tomato and mozzarella mixture, stirring gently to mix everything well. Taste and adjust with more dressing or glaze if desired. Top the bowl with additional fresh basil for that final pop of color and aroma. Your Grilled Chicken Caprese Bowl is now ready to serve—a perfect harmony of savory, creamy, and fresh flavors all in one satisfying dish.

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Caprese Bowl

Garnishes

The fresh basil is a non-negotiable garnish that brings brightness and herbal fragrance to this bowl. For extra flair and flavor, try sprinkling some cracked black pepper or a pinch of flaky sea salt on top. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze adds an elegant sheen and a sweet-tart finish that visually and flavorfully elevates the dish.

Side Dishes

This bowl is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with light, complementary sides. Simple grilled asparagus, a crusty baguette for sopping up juices, or a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette keep the meal balanced and vibrant. For a more filling option, serve alongside herbed quinoa or garlic roasted potatoes.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive presentation, serve the Grilled Chicken Caprese Bowl layered in a large, shallow dish for sharing or portioned individually in mason jars or pretty bowls. You can also turn it into a wrap filling by combining the mixture with fresh greens in a warm pita or tortilla. Whether plated casually or dressed up, this dish always delights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Grilled Chicken Caprese Bowl in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Because of the fresh tomatoes and basil, the flavors develop more but basil may darken a bit. To keep the basil vibrant, consider storing it separately and adding it fresh before serving.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not ideal due to the delicate nature of the tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella which can suffer texture changes. However, you can freeze the grilled chicken separately if needed, then thaw and toss with fresh ingredients when ready to eat.

Reheating

Reheat leftover grilled chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until just warmed through—avoid overheating to keep it juicy. Add the fresh Caprese salad ingredients afterward to maintain their fresh crunch and flavor. Drizzle with fresh balsamic glaze just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Absolutely! While mini mozzarella balls are traditional and offer a wonderful creamy texture, you can experiment with burrata for an even richer feel or a firm ricotta salata for a bit of salty tang. Just adjust the quantity so it balances well with the tomatoes and chicken.

What is the best way to get perfect grill marks on the chicken?

Make sure your grill is extremely hot before placing the chicken down. Avoid moving the chicken too much during grilling; let it sit for several minutes before flipping. This helps create those beautiful, appetizing grill marks and seals in moisture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit the grilled chicken and boost the Caprese elements with extra mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. You can add grilled vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for extra substance, transforming it into a vibrant vegetarian bowl.

Is it okay to marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes! Marinating the chicken overnight not only saves time but also deepens the flavors, making the grilled chicken even more flavorful and juicy. Just be sure to keep it well-covered and refrigerated.

Can this bowl be served cold or only warm?

This dish shines both ways. It’s delicious warm straight off the grill and mixed fresh, but it also tastes fantastic chilled as a refreshing salad on warmer days. Just add any fresh basil and dressing right before serving for the best results.

Final Thoughts

Cooking and sharing a Grilled Chicken Caprese Bowl is one of those simple pleasures that brings warmth and joy to the table. It’s an easy, colorful, and flavorful meal that never disappoints. Whether you’re craving a wholesome solo dinner or something that impresses guests effortlessly, this bowl checks all the boxes. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a beloved favorite in your rotation too.