This Juicy Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken brings together sweet peaches, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella over perfectly grilled chicken. It’s colorful and full of flavor!
Every bite is like a summer party in your mouth! I like to serve it with a light salad. Trust me, it’s hard to have just one piece! 😋
Making this dish is a breeze! Just grill the chicken, add the toppings, and enjoy. It’s a quick meal that feels fancy with very little effort.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling since they cook evenly. If you prefer, you can swap them for thighs for a juicier result. You can even use tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian twist!
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches add sweetness and color. If you can’t find peaches, nectarines work well too. Canned or frozen peaches can be used, but they won’t have the same structure when grilled.
Fresh Mozzarella: Mozzarella gives a creamy texture. If you need a dairy-free option, you can try a nut-based mozzarella. Feta cheese is another alternative that adds a tangy flavor!
Basil: Fresh basil enhances the dish’s taste beautifully. If basil isn’t available, try using fresh spinach or arugula for a different flavor. Dried basil can work in a pinch but use less because it’s much more concentrated.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Grilled Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it every time! Firstly, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps the chicken sear nicely.
- Marinate your chicken with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper to keep it deliciously moist.
- Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reads 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes off the grill; this allows the juices to redistribute and keeps it tender.
These tips will help you serve perfectly juicy chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Juicy Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh arugula for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this delicious meal is about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing everything and about 20 minutes cooking it to perfection. Perfect for a quick but impressive dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your chicken gets a nice char and cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well! Now, brush this delicious mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts, coating them evenly.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side. Then, flip them over and grill for another 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps lock in the juices!
4. Grill the Peaches:
While the chicken rests, place the peach slices on the grill. Grill them for 1-2 minutes per side, just until they get beautiful grill marks and start to soften. Yum!
5. Assemble the Toppings:
Now it’s time to make your chicken extra special! Top each chicken breast with sliced fresh mozzarella, grilled peaches, and halved cherry tomatoes. It’s starting to look amazing!
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top and sprinkle fresh basil leaves for the final flavor boost. Trust me, this step makes everything better!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Juicy Peach Caprese Grilled Chicken immediately! You can plate it over a bed of fresh arugula or next to your favorite side dish. Dive in and enjoy this delightful meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to fully thaw them before grilling! The best way to do this is to leave them in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method. Just place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Peaches?
If you can’t find ripe peaches, nectarines make a great substitute! You could also use other fruits like plums or apricots, but keep in mind that grilling time may vary slightly depending on the fruit’s firmness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat to maintain the chicken’s juiciness. Add a splash of balsamic glaze to freshen up the flavors!
Can I Prep This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken with the olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just be sure to keep it in the fridge. You can also prep the peach slices and store them in an airtight container until ready to grill!