Caprese Chicken Bowl

This Caprese Chicken Bowl is a vibrant, protein-packed meal featuring juicy grilled chicken, creamy fresh mozzarella, and ripe tomatoes. Garnished with aromatic basil and a tangy balsamic reduction, it's perfect for a light yet satisfying dinner that is both gluten-free and low-carb. With only 370 calories and 38g of protein per serving, this easy-to-make dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.

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The combination of fresh basil and tangy balsamic glaze elevates the seasoned chicken, creating a flavorful dish that captures the essence of Italian-inspired cuisine in a single bowl. This recipe is simple to prepare but offers a gourmet experience with its fresh, high-quality ingredients.

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

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

Step 2

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 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

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

Arrange salad greens (if using) in bowls. Top with sliced grilled chicken, mozzarella, tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves.

Step 6

Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and the balsamic reduction. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7

Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes before grilling. To prepare this recipe successfully, you will need a grill or grill pan, a sharp knife and cutting board, a small saucepan, and mixing bowls.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Substitute cherry tomatoes or heirloom tomatoes for variety. You can also add avocado or toasted pine nuts for extra richness and texture in your bowl.

Serviervorschläge

This Caprese Chicken Bowl pairs well with a chilled Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing meal.

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Enjoy this fresh take on the classic Caprese salad as a wholesome main dish any day of the week. With its simple preparation and vibrant presentation, it is sure to become a favorite in your healthy recipe rotation.

Your Questions Answered

→ Can I make the chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely. Grill and slice the chicken up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before assembling your bowls.

→ What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?

Try a reduced balsamic glaze from the store to save time, or use red wine vinegar with a touch of honey mixed in. The flavor profile will shift slightly but still complement the fresh ingredients.

→ Is this bowl dairy-free without the mozzarella?

Yes—simply omit the mozzarella or replace it with dairy-free alternatives. The remaining ingredients are naturally dairy-free and still create a satisfying, flavorful bowl.

→ How do I know when the balsamic reduction is ready?

The reduction is done when it coats the back of a spoon and has reduced by about half. Remember it will continue thickening as it cools, so remove it from heat while still slightly runny.

→ Can I use a different protein?

Grilled salmon, shrimp, or even tofu work beautifully here. Adjust cooking times accordingly and season with the same Italian herb blend for consistent flavor.