If you’re craving a meal that brings the freshness of summer right onto your plate and delivers mouthwatering flavors with every bite, the Grilled & Stuffed Caprese Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish masterfully combines juicy chicken breasts stuffed with the classic Caprese trio of ripe tomato, fragrant basil, and creamy mozzarella, all kissed with a luscious balsamic reduction. It’s a vibrant, simple, and impressive dinner that feels gourmet but comes together with ease, making it perfect for weeknights or special weekends alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Grilled & Stuffed Caprese Chicken Recipe plays a crucial role, from the juicy chicken to the fresh basil that bursts with aroma. These simple staples come together to create a harmonious blend of flavor, texture, and color that’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate.
- 4 chicken breasts: Choose plump, even-sized breasts for uniform cooking and an ideal stuffing pocket.
- 1 tomato: A ripe tomato adds bright, juicy acidity that balances the richness perfectly.
- 16-20 basil leaves: Fresh basil is essential for that unmistakable Caprese flavor and herbaceous aroma.
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella: This creamy cheese melts beautifully inside the chicken, making every bite irresistibly gooey.
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar: For the reduction, it gives a tangy-sweet finish that elevates the whole dish.
- 1/2 cup water: Dilutes the vinegar slightly to help create the perfect consistency for the reduction.
- Olive oil: Used for coating the chicken to promote browning and added richness, plus for drizzling at the end.
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. Bring this to a boil on high heat, then turn it down to a gentle simmer. Allow it to reduce slowly for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a rich, syrupy glaze. This reduction is going to shower your chicken with a luscious tangy-sweet finish.
Step 2: Prep and Stuff the Chicken Breasts
While the balsamic reduction is simmering, it’s time to get hands-on with the chicken. Use a sharp knife to carefully slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, without cutting all the way through. This pocket is your treasure chest for fresh mozzarella, tomato slices, and layers of fragrant basil leaves. Stuff each breast generously, making sure everything stays tucked inside for the grill.
Step 3: Season and Oil the Chicken
Coat each stuffed chicken breast lightly with olive oil to ensure a golden-brown sear. Adding a pinch of salt and pepper here can enhance the natural flavors, making sure the inside ingredients shine without needing extra fuss.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for approximately 10 minutes per side. The goal is a beautiful char that locks in juices while melting that mozzarella delectably inside. Use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe and juicy results.
Step 5: Serve with the Balsamic Drizzle
Once grilled, transfer the chicken to a plate and drizzle the warm balsamic reduction over each piece. The glossy, tangy sauce adds a stunning final touch and an explosion of flavor that complements the fresh Caprese stuffing.
How to Serve Grilled & Stuffed Caprese Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves scattered over the top not only enhance visual appeal but also amplify the herby aroma right before eating. A light sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a pinch of sea salt can add extra dimension. For a colorful contrast, consider a few cherry tomato halves artfully arranged on the plate.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that won’t compete with the vibrant Caprese flavors. Think garlic roasted potatoes, a crisp mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, or even a bed of fluffy couscous. Steamed asparagus or grilled zucchini also make fantastic, healthy companions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a truly elegant presentation, slice the stuffed chicken crosswise to expose the colorful layers inside, letting guests admire the melting mozzarella intertwined with tomato and basil. Serve on a platter drizzled with balsamic reduction and garnished with whole basil leaves for an eye-catching centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store your Grilled & Stuffed Caprese Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days and makes a delicious lunch or dinner that reheats well.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked stuffed chicken breasts individually wrapped in foil or plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to two months, but remember that fresh basil flavor might dull slightly after thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F, covered with foil to retain moisture. This method helps keep the mozzarella melty and the chicken juicy without overcooking. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it tends to dry out the cheese and meat.
FAQs
Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of fresh mozzarella?
You can use shredded mozzarella in a pinch, but fresh mozzarella provides a creamier texture and the authentic Caprese experience that this Grilled & Stuffed Caprese Chicken Recipe is known for.
Is it necessary to grill the chicken, or can I bake it?
Baking is an option if you don’t have a grill. Bake at 375°F for about 25–30 minutes, but grilling gives that smoky char and caramelized flavor that really elevates the dish.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time before grilling?
Absolutely! You can stuff and season the chicken breasts a few hours ahead, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to grill. Just bring them close to room temperature before cooking for even results.
How thick should I slice the tomato for stuffing?
Slice the tomato about 1/4 inch thick. This thickness provides juiciness without excess moisture that can make the chicken soggy during grilling.
What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar if I don’t have any?
For the balsamic reduction, a mix of red wine vinegar and a touch of honey or brown sugar can mimic the sweet tang. However, balsamic vinegar’s unique depth is hard to replicate exactly in this recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled & Stuffed Caprese Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special yet requires minimal effort to make. The vibrant freshness from the basil and tomato combined with the melty mozzarella inside juicy grilled chicken creates a harmony of flavors that never fails to impress. Give this recipe a try and bring a taste of Italy into your home that’s bound to become an instant favorite!
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
Description
This Grilled & Stuffed Caprese Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts stuffed with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomato, and fragrant basil leaves. Finished with a homemade balsamic reduction drizzle, this dish perfectly balances savory, fresh, and tangy flavors for a delightful Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Stuffing Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 16–20 fresh basil leaves
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
Balsamic Reduction
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
Additional Ingredients
- Olive oil for coating and drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Balsamic Reduction: In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and water. Heat over high heat until it reaches a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for 20-25 minutes while the chicken cooks, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces by about half and thickens to a syrupy consistency. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prep the Chicken: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast without slicing all the way through. This pocket will hold the filling ingredients.
- Stuff the Chicken: Inside each pocket, layer slices of fresh mozzarella, tomato, and several basil leaves. Press the pocket closed gently to secure the fillings inside.
- Season and Oil: Lightly coat each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste on both sides.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F or 190-204°C). Ensure the grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts onto the grill. Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese inside is melted. Avoid moving the breasts too much to develop good grill marks.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Drizzle the prepared balsamic reduction over each chicken breast and garnish with extra fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, you can use sliced provolone or another melting cheese as an alternative.
- Make sure to monitor the balsamic reduction closely to prevent burning, as it can thicken quickly once it reduces.
- For an indoor alternative, cook the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through for food safety and optimal juiciness.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently to avoid drying out.
