Description
This Grilled Chicken Caprese Bowl is a fresh, flavorful, and healthy meal combining tender marinated grilled chicken with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with zesty balsamic vinaigrette and glaze for a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 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
For the Caprese Salad
- 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
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a dish or resealable bag. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried basil, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and pepper. Pour this marinade over the chicken, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
- Preheat and Grill the Chicken: When ready, preheat your grill to high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and place on the grill. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is cooked through and has beautiful grill marks.
- Rest and Slice the Chicken: Remove the grilled chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to retain its juices. Then, cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks.
- Prepare the Caprese Salad: While the chicken rests, in a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, and a big handful of chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette or balsamic glaze according to your preference and gently toss to combine.
- Assemble the Bowl: Add the chopped grilled chicken to the Caprese mixture, stirring gently to incorporate. Adjust seasoning or drizzle more balsamic glaze or vinaigrette if desired. Garnish with additional fresh basil and serve immediately for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken overnight for enhanced flavor and tenderness.
- If a grill is not available, you can cook the chicken on a grill pan or in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Use fresh basil for the best aroma and flavor.
- Balsamic glaze adds a sweeter, syrupy finish compared to vinaigrette; use based on your taste preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
