If you’ve ever dreamed of a meal that combines the bright flavors of summer with juicy, tender chicken, then you are absolutely going to fall in love with this Grilled & Stuffed Caprese Chicken Recipe. This dish beautifully marries fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all tucked inside a perfectly grilled chicken breast bursting with flavor. It’s that delightful balance of smoky char, tangy sweetness from balsamic reduction, and melty cheese that feels just like a hug on a plate. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to for impressing family or simply indulging yourself on a weeknight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Grilled & Stuffed Caprese Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role, lending fresh, vibrant notes or rich, creamy texture that make every bite an unforgettable experience. Let’s dive into these essentials that keep the dish bright and beautiful.
- Chicken breasts: The perfect blank canvas that gets juicy and tender when grilled, ready to hold all the Caprese goodness.
- Tomato: Ripe and juicy, it adds sweetness and moisture that balances the savory flavors.
- Basil leaves: Fresh and fragrant, they bring that unmistakable herbaceous freshness to every bite.
- Fresh mozzarella: Soft and creamy, melting perfectly inside the chicken to create a luscious texture contrast.
- Balsamic vinegar: When reduced, it becomes a syrupy glaze adding a tangy sweetness that elevates the entire dish.
- Water: Used to help reduce the balsamic vinegar without burning—it’s all about that perfect sweet glaze.
- Olive oil: Essential for coating the chicken so it grills to a golden, flavorful finish and for drizzling to add richness.
How to Make Grilled & Stuffed Caprese Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Balsamic Reduction
Start by combining the balsamic vinegar and water in a small saucepan over high heat. Bring it to a boil, then lower to a simmer. Let it gently bubble and reduce for about 20 to 25 minutes until it thickens into a syrupy glaze. This reduction will add a beautiful glossy finish and a sweet tang that ties all the flavors together.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While your balsamic glaze is simmering away, it’s time to prep the chicken breasts. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the thick side of each chicken breast. This pocket will hold your fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, and basil leaves. Making sure not to cut all the way through is key to keeping all those yummy fillings inside as the chicken cooks.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken
Fill each pocket with layers of fresh mozzarella slices, tomato wedges, and basil leaves. Don’t be shy—stuff them generously! The fillings will melt and meld inside the chicken, delivering bursts of classic Caprese flavors in every bite.
Step 4: Season and Oil
Lightly season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, and a generous coating of olive oil. This helps create a crispy, golden crust on the grill while locking in moisture. The olive oil also prevents sticking and adds subtle richness.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on the grill, cooking for about 6 to 8 minutes per side or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has beautiful grill marks. Baste occasionally with olive oil for extra flavor and moisture.
Step 6: Drizzle and Serve
Once off the grill, let the chicken rest for a few minutes so those delicious juices redistribute. Then, generously drizzle your balsamic reduction over the stuffed chicken breasts. The glossy glaze adds the perfect balance of tang and sweetness that makes this dish truly shine.
How to Serve Grilled & Stuffed Caprese Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh pop of color and more basil aroma, sprinkle a few whole basil leaves and cherry tomato halves on top just before serving. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or even a pinch of flaky sea salt can elevate the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes that let the chicken shine. Think garlic roasted potatoes, a crisp arugula salad dressed lightly with lemon, or even a side of creamy risotto. Each option complements the Caprese chicken without overpowering its bold flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your guests? Slice the grilled chicken breast into medallions, fanning them out on a platter with the balsamic glaze poured artistically over the top. Serve it alongside a bright basil pesto or a fresh tomato salsa to amp up the flavor and presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover grilled & stuffed Caprese chicken keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the balsamic reduction separately if possible to maintain its texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions, wrap the cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. It remains good for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in an oven set to 325°F (165°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Cover it loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Add a fresh drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving to refresh its vibrant flavor.
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella instead of fresh mozzarella?
For the best creamy texture and authentic Caprese flavor, fresh mozzarella is ideal. Pre-shredded mozzarella often contains anti-caking agents that may affect melting and texture.
What can I substitute for fresh basil if I don’t have any?
If fresh basil isn’t available, baby spinach or fresh parsley can add a fresh note, but basil’s unique aromatic flavor is truly unbeatable in this recipe.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can swap the fresh mozzarella for a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well, or omit cheese entirely and add extra basil and tomato for flavor.
Can I bake the stuffed chicken instead of grilling?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until fully cooked. Finish under the broiler for a couple of minutes to get a nicely browned top if you like.
What wine pairs well with Grilled & Stuffed Caprese Chicken Recipe?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir are excellent choices. They balance the freshness of basil and tomato without overwhelming the chicken’s mild flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled & Stuffed Caprese Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both special and achievable. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or when you want to impress without hours in the kitchen. Once you master this recipe, it’ll quickly become a beloved staple. I can’t wait for you to try it and savor that divine combination of fresh, smoky, tangy, and melty in every single bite!
Print
Grilled & Stuffed Caprese Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and elegant Grilled & Stuffed Caprese Chicken recipe featuring juicy chicken breasts stuffed with fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato, drizzled with a rich balsamic reduction. Perfect for a quick yet impressive meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Filling
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 tomato, thinly sliced
- 16–20 fresh basil leaves
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
Balsamic Reduction
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
Other
- Olive oil for coating and drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare Balsamic Reduction: Add balsamic vinegar and water to a small saucepan over high heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes until the mixture has reduced by about half and thickened to a syrupy consistency. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Prep Chicken: While the balsamic reduction simmers, carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. Be sure not to slice completely so the stuffing stays inside during cooking.
- Stuff Chicken: Stuff each chicken breast with slices of fresh mozzarella, tomato, and several basil leaves. Secure with toothpicks if needed to keep the filling inside.
- Coat Chicken: Lightly brush the outside of each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and promotes even grilling.
- Grill Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F). Place the stuffed chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the cheese inside is melted. Avoid pressing down on the chicken to keep the filling intact.
- Serve: Remove toothpicks if used. Plate the grilled chicken breasts and drizzle generously with the prepared balsamic reduction. Optionally, garnish with additional basil leaves for freshness and aroma.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked without drying it out.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- The balsamic reduction can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Be careful not to overstuff the chicken breasts to prevent filling from leaking out.
- For a low-sodium version, use a reduced-sodium balsamic vinegar if available.
