This Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken is a fun twist on the classic dish. Juicy chicken is topped with fresh peaches, mozzarella, and basil for a summer vibe that’s hard to resist!
If you’re like me, you might just want to eat all the toppings first! The sweet peaches and creamy cheese create a perfect mix. Plus, it’s easy to whip up on a busy weeknight.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. If you want a change, you can use chicken thighs for more juiciness. They will add a bit of extra flavor too!
Peaches: Ripe peaches are essential for that sweet and fresh taste. If peaches aren’t in season, you can swap them with nectarines or even grilled apricots for a similar vibe.
Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella adds creaminess. If you’re lactose intolerant, try using a non-dairy cheese or silken tofu for a creamy texture as a substitute.
Basil: Fresh basil is key to a fragrant flavor. If you can’t find fresh basil, you could use a teaspoon of dried oregano or basil flakes, but fresh is always best!
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with these simple tips, you’ll get it just right! Start by ensuring your grill is hot enough—preheat it to medium-high.
- Brush the chicken with your olive oil mixture to add flavor and keep it moist.
- Cook the chicken without moving it around to get nice grill marks. After 6-7 minutes, flip it once to cook the other side.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps keep it juicy before you top it with all those delicious ingredients!
How to Make Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Toppings:
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (or balsamic reduction)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook on the grill, for a total of about 25 minutes. Quick and easy, right?
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will give your chicken a nice char and cook it evenly.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This simple marinade will add great flavor to the chicken.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Brush the marinade all over both sides of the chicken breasts. Make sure they are well-coated for maximum flavor.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked (they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
5. Grill the Peaches:
In the last few minutes of cooking, place the peach slices on the grill. Grill them for about 2 minutes on each side just until they have nice grill marks and soften a bit.
6. Assemble the Dish:
Once the chicken is cooked and removed from the grill, layer each breast with slices of fresh mozzarella, grilled peach slices, cherry tomato halves, and fresh basil leaves. This is where the magic happens!
7. Finish with Balsamic Glaze:
Drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top for added sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Your delicious Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm and relish the wonderful combination of flavors.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before grilling! The best way to do this is by leaving it in the fridge overnight or quickly thawing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before marinating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prep the toppings in advance. Store the marinated chicken in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Grilling right before serving will ensure it remains juicy and flavorful.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently in the microwave or on a pan over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. You can enjoy the leftovers cold in salads, too!
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Glaze?
If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can use regular balsamic vinegar or make a quick reduction by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens. Another tasty alternative is a drizzle of honey or a fruity vinaigrette for added sweetness.