Grilled Chicken Caprese is a classic summer dish that combines the flavors of grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, and basil. Here's a recipe that yields a delicious and flavorful dish:
Ingredients:
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
* 1 cup of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
* 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
* 2 cloves of garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze (or 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
* Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
* Additional ingredients for variations:
+ 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes
+ 1/4 cup of chopped fresh oregano
+ 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese
Cooking Steps:
1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly.
4. Meanwhile, brush the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the eggplant for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it's tender and lightly charred.
5. To assemble the dish, place a slice of grilled chicken on a plate, followed by a slice of grilled eggplant, a few slices of mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped basil and black pepper.
6. Drizzle the balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar) over the top of the dish and serve immediately.
Tips on Correct Cooking Techniques:
* Make sure to grill the chicken and eggplant at medium-high heat to achieve a nice char and tender texture.
* Don't overcrowd the grill, cook the chicken and eggplant in batches if necessary.
* Use a thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
* Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it, this will help the juices redistribute and the chicken to stay moist.
Variations and Additional Ingredients:
* To add some sweetness, top the dish with roasted red pepper slices or a drizzle of honey.
* For a Mediterranean twist, add some chopped kalamata olives or artichoke hearts to the dish.
* To make the dish more substantial, add some cooked pasta or quinoa to the plate.
* For a vegan version, substitute the mozzarella cheese with roasted red bell pepper slices and use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken.
By following these steps and tips, you'll be able to create a delicious Grilled Chicken Caprese that's sure to impress your family and friends. Experiment with different ingredients and variations to make the dish your own!