This Grilled Pesto Caprese Chicken recipe is a great weeknight option because it comes together quickly and uses simple, fresh ingredients that don’t require much prep. The chicken grills in under 15 minutes, and the toppings—pesto, mozzarella, tomato, and basil—add big flavor without extra work. It’s also flexible for families, since you can serve it with easy sides like pesto noodles, roasted potatoes, or a side salad depending on what everyone likes. The result is a balanced, colorful meal that feels fresh but still fits into a busy evening.

Grilled Pesto Caprese Chicken

This Grilled Pesto Caprese Chicken is a great weeknight option because it comes together quickly and uses simple, fresh ingredients that don’t require much prep.

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Total Time 20

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American, Italian

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

1.5-2 lbs chicken boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
salt and pepper to taste
2-3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
8 oz jar of your favorite pesto (or homemade pesto)
8 oz fresh Mozzarella, sliced
1-2 hearty tomatoes, sliced
2-3 tbsp fresh basil, cut into ribbons (optional)

Equipment

1 Grill or grill pan

Method

Preheat grill or grill pan to 400 degrees. Season the chicken by drizzling the balsamic vinegar all over it, then season to taste with salt and pepper.
Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. **When the chicken is almost done grilling on the second side, brush or dollop about a tsp of pesto per thigh onto the chicken, and top with a slice of Mozzerella.**
When the chicken is done and the Mozzarella is melty, remove from the grill and top with slice of tomato and fresh basil. Optional sides: noodles with the extra pesto, roasted potatoes, side salad.

If you have a picky eater, just grill their chicken with a slice of their favorite cheese and skip the pesto and /or tomatoes!

Grilled Pesto Caprese Chicken Recipe