This Summertime Caprese Chicken is a fresh and flavorful dish perfect for light dinners, BBQs, or summer entertaining. With tender, marinated chicken topped with a tangy tomato-mozzarella-basil mixture, this recipe brings the vibrant flavors of summer to your table. At only 224 calories per serving, it’s a healthy and satisfying option for everyone.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1 (8 oz) container plain yogurt
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
8 thin-cut boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 1 ½ pounds total)

For the Tomato-Mozzarella Topping:

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, cut into 16 wedges
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons water
1 pound plum tomatoes, cored, seeded, and chopped (about 4 cups)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes
1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, chopped

Directions

Marinate the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, whisk yogurt and balsamic vinegar until blended. Place chicken and yogurt mixture in a food storage bag, seal, and turn to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
Prepare the Topping:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté for 5 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add balsamic vinegar and water. Simmer over medium-low heat for about 7 minutes until the liquid reduces and onions are tender.
- Increase heat to medium-high and add tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, then remove from heat. Let the mixture cool for 2-3 minutes before gently stirring in mozzarella cubes and basil.
Grill the Chicken:
- Remove chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Gently rinse chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
- Preheat a gas grill or grill pan to medium-high. Lightly grease the grill grates or pan.
- Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side until cooked through.
Serve:
- Place the grilled chicken on a platter. Serve with the tomato-mozzarella-basil topping in the center, allowing guests to spoon it over the chicken as desired.

Nutrients

Calories: 224 kcal per serving
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Protein: 27 g
Fat: 8 g
Sodium: 450 mg
Sugar: 6 g

The Inspiration Behind Caprese Chicken

The origins of this dish are rooted in the iconic Caprese salad, a beloved Italian appetizer that highlights the natural harmony of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. This Summertime Caprese Chicken takes those same elements and transforms them into a hearty yet light main course.

The addition of marinated chicken not only makes the dish more substantial but also brings out the smoky, charred flavors from grilling, which beautifully complement the tangy, creamy Caprese topping. This adaptation maintains the salad’s essence while making it suitable for a wider range of occasions and appetites.

Why This Dish is Perfect for Summer

Summertime Caprese Chicken is designed to showcase the best of seasonal ingredients and outdoor cooking. Here’s why it stands out as a quintessential summer recipe:

Fresh Ingredients: The use of ripe plum tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil ensures a burst of summer flavors in every bite.
Grilling: Cooking the chicken on a grill adds a smoky, charred element that enhances the dish’s overall taste and provides an excuse to enjoy outdoor cooking.
Light and Healthy: The yogurt-based marinade tenderizes the chicken while keeping it moist and low in fat. Paired with the fresh topping, it creates a balanced, nutrient-packed meal.
Versatility: This dish pairs well with various sides, from crisp green salads to roasted vegetables, making it suitable for casual dinners or elaborate summer spreads.

The Secret to Tender, Flavorful Chicken

A key element of this recipe is the yogurt-based marinade. Marinating chicken in yogurt has been a time-honored technique across many cuisines due to its tenderizing properties. Here’s why it works so well:

Acidity: The mild acidity of yogurt gently breaks down the protein fibers in the chicken, resulting in a tender, juicy texture.
Flavor Absorption: The creamy consistency of yogurt allows it to cling to the chicken, ensuring even seasoning and flavor penetration.
Moisture Retention: Marinating in yogurt helps the chicken retain moisture during grilling, preventing it from drying out.

In this recipe, the yogurt is enhanced with balsamic vinegar, which adds a sweet and tangy depth to the chicken, perfectly complementing the Caprese-inspired topping.

The Caprese Topping: A Burst of Flavor

The tomato-mozzarella-basil topping is what makes this dish truly shine. It’s a fresh, tangy, and creamy combination that enhances the smoky grilled chicken. Each ingredient contributes uniquely to the flavor profile:

Tomatoes: Ripe plum tomatoes are the star, offering a balance of sweetness and acidity. Their vibrant red color also adds visual appeal to the dish.
Mozzarella: The creamy, mild flavor of fresh mozzarella contrasts beautifully with the tanginess of the balsamic vinegar and the brightness of the basil.
Basil: Fresh basil leaves bring a fragrant, herbal note that ties the whole topping together.
Balsamic Reduction: Cooking the balsamic vinegar with onions creates a rich, slightly sweet base that elevates the entire topping.

The result is a topping that’s as versatile as it is delicious. It can also double as a bruschetta topping or a side salad, making it a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire.

Pairing Ideas for a Complete Meal

Summertime Caprese Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a colorful, nutrient-packed plate.
Salads: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the chicken and topping.
Grains: Pair with quinoa, couscous, or farro for a hearty yet wholesome accompaniment.
Bread: A crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra balsamic and tomato juices.

For beverages, consider a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea with a hint of lemon.

Tips for Cooking and Presentation

To ensure your Summertime Caprese Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Since this dish relies on simple ingredients, their quality makes a big difference. Choose ripe, in-season tomatoes and fresh mozzarella for the best results.
Marinate Thoroughly: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes to absorb the flavors fully. For even more flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours.
Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill or grill pan is properly preheated to prevent sticking and achieve those beautiful char marks.
Serve Fresh: This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the grill when the chicken is hot and the topping is cool and vibrant.

For an impressive presentation, serve the grilled chicken on a large platter and spoon the tomato-mozzarella topping over the top. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for a pop of color.

Why This Recipe Will Be a Summer Staple

Summertime Caprese Chicken is the kind of recipe that you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying a quiet family dinner, or meal-prepping for the week, this dish fits the bill.

The balance of smoky grilled chicken and the fresh, tangy Caprese topping creates a harmonious dish that’s satisfying without being heavy. Its vibrant colors and flavors also make it a joy to serve, earning it a spot on your go-to summer menu.

Conclusion: A Dish That Captures the Spirit of Summer

Summertime Caprese Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. It encapsulates the essence of summer with its fresh, bold flavors and light, healthy profile. This recipe showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary, proving that great cooking doesn’t have to be complicated.

Whether you’re savoring it at a picnic, serving it at a dinner party, or enjoying it as a weekday dinner, this dish will leave you and your guests delighted. Add it to your recipe collection, and let it become a cherished part of your summer traditions.

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