This Easy Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken is a tasty dish that’s perfect for summer! Juicy grilled chicken topped with fresh peaches, mozzarella, and basil makes every bite delightful.
Honestly, who knew grilled chicken could look so fancy? Whenever I make this, friends think I’m a gourmet chef. Just keep smiling while you enjoy their surprise! 😄
What I love most is how quick it is to prepare. Just grill the chicken, layer the toppings, and enjoy. It’s great for a weeknight meal or impressing guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish because they grill well and stay juicy. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer more flavor and tenderness.
Peaches: Ripe peaches are key for sweetness. If they’re out of season, try nectarines or even mango for a different fruity twist.
Fresh Mozzarella: The creaminess of fresh mozzarella adds richness. In a pinch, you can use regular mozzarella or even feta for a unique flavor.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds freshness and aroma. If you can’t find basil, fresh mint or arugula can work too, offering a different but delightful taste.
Balsamic Glaze: This gives the dish a tangy finish. If you don’t have it, a splash of vinegar mixed with a bit of honey can achieve a similar effect.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but there are some easy ways to get it just right:
- Make sure your grill is hot! Preheating helps to create those nice grill marks.
- Let the chicken rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. This helps it cook evenly.
- Avoid flipping the chicken too often. Cook 6-7 minutes on one side, then flip it for the same time. This helps develop a nice crust.
- Use a meat thermometer! Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
Easy Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced (can be slightly grilled or used fresh)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (chiffonade)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction
- Optional: garlic powder or Italian seasoning for chicken
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 20-25 minutes total to make this dish—just 5-10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for cooking on the grill. It’s a quick and refreshing meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your chicken gets those lovely grill marks and cooks evenly!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil. Season generously with salt, pepper, and if you like, sprinkle on a bit of garlic powder or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken on the grill. Cook it for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to be nice and charred with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
4. Char the Peaches:
While the chicken is grilling, you can toss those peach slices on the grill for 1-2 minutes per side to slightly char them. This step is optional if you prefer fresh peaches instead!
5. Assemble the Dish:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and place it on a serving platter. Immediately top each chicken breast with slices of fresh mozzarella and your grilled (or fresh) peach slices.
6. Add Finishing Touches:
Drizzle balsamic glaze over the chicken, peaches, and mozzarella. Don’t forget to sprinkle the dish generously with the fresh sliced basil for that aromatic touch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken warm, and enjoy the delightful mix of savory, sweet, and creamy flavors. It’s sure to impress anyone who shares the meal with you!
This fresh twist on the classic Caprese combines the sweetness of peaches with traditional ingredients, making it a stunning and flavorful grilled chicken entrée!
FAQ for Easy Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are flavorful and juicier than chicken breasts, making them a great alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to reach the recommended internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Balsamic Glaze?
No worries! If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can easily make a quick substitute. Mix balsamic vinegar with a bit of honey or brown sugar and simmer it on the stove until it thickens slightly. This will give you a sweet and tangy drizzle that works perfectly!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep certain components ahead of time. Marinate the chicken and slice the peaches and mozzarella beforehand. Just grill everything right before serving for the best taste and texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stove. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken from drying out. Enjoy your meal!
