Save to Pinterest Experience the essence of summer in a single dish with this Caprese Chicken Bowl. It is a vibrant, protein-packed meal featuring juicy grilled chicken, creamy fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a tangy balsamic reduction—perfect for a light yet satisfying meal that brings Italian-inspired flavors to your table in just 30 minutes.
Save to Pinterest This easy recipe is designed for those who crave a fresh, gourmet-style meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you are meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this bowl delivers on both nutrition and taste.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500 g), 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Salad: 200 g fresh mozzarella balls (sliced or torn), 3 medium ripe tomatoes (sliced or diced), 1 cup (about 25 g) fresh basil leaves, 4 cups mixed salad greens (optional, e.g., arugula, spinach)
- Balsamic Reduction: 1/2 cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar, 1 tbsp honey
- Finishing: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, sea salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Preparation
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Step 2: Season Chicken
- Slice chicken breasts in half horizontally to create 4 thinner cutlets. Drizzle with olive oil and season evenly with Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Step 3: Grill
- Grill chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
- Step 4: Make Reduction
- While the chicken cooks, prepare the balsamic reduction: In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until syrupy. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- Step 5: Assemble
- Arrange salad greens (if using) in bowls. Top with sliced grilled chicken, mozzarella, tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves.
- Step 6: Final Touch
- Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and the balsamic reduction. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken for 30 minutes before grilling. This allows the Italian herbs and garlic powder to penetrate the meat more deeply for a more savory bite.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can substitute cherry tomatoes or heirloom tomatoes for variety in color and sweetness. For extra richness and texture, consider adding sliced avocado or a handful of toasted pine nuts to the bowl.
Serviervorschläge
This Caprese Chicken Bowl pairs exceptionally well with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with a fresh lemon wedge to complement the tangy balsamic and creamy mozzarella.
Save to Pinterest Each serving provides 370 calories, 38g of protein, and only 10g of carbohydrates, making it a perfectly balanced meal for your healthy eating goals. Enjoy this refreshing taste of Italy!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18-22 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest before slicing for maximum juiciness.
- → How long does the balsamic reduction keep?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The consistency will thicken when cold—warm gently before using.
- → What can I substitute for fresh mozzarella?
Burrata, dolcelatte, or feta work well. For dairy-free options, try vegan mozzarella or diced avocado for creamy texture.
- → Can I meal prep this bowl?
Absolutely. Store components separately: chicken, balsamic glaze, and salad ingredients in separate containers. Assemble when ready to eat within 3-4 days.
- → Is this suitable for low-carb diets?
Yes, this bowl is naturally low-carb and gluten-free. Skip the salad greens or replace with cauliflower rice for even fewer carbs.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A chilled Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or light red like Bardolino complements the fresh flavors beautifully. Sparkling water with lemon works for non-alcoholic options.
