Welcome to your new favorite summer grilling recipe: the Caprese Grilled Chicken Paillard. This dish is not just quick to prepare but also a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors, making it absolutely perfect for those warm, sun-dkissed evenings. Topped with a savory mixture of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, and finished with a sweet, tangy balsamic reduction, this meal is a beacon of healthy, light, and utterly satisfying dining. It brings together gourmet taste with effortless preparation, ensuring a delightful experience for both the cook and the diners.
As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, my grill becomes a central hub for weekly meals. From the smoky depths of Blackened Grilled Chicken Thighs to the exotic zest of Grilled Gochujang Chicken Skewers, and the herbaceous charm of Mediterranean Grilled Chicken, my repertoire is vast and varied. While each recipe offers its own unique deliciousness, there are times when efficiency and crowd-pleasing appeal take precedence.
This Caprese Grilled Chicken Paillard truly stands out as my go-to when I need a quick, easy, and undeniably delicious option that can feed a gathering without breaking a sweat. The beauty of this recipe lies in its minimal prep time and lightning-fast cooking, bringing the entire dish from raw ingredients to a ready-to-serve masterpiece in just over 30 minutes. It’s a testament to how simple techniques can yield extraordinary results, making it ideal for impromptu gatherings or a fuss-free family dinner.
Beyond its speed, the method of preparing chicken paillard ensures that every piece of chicken turns out exceptionally tender, flavorful, and incredibly juicy. This isn’t just a basic grilled chicken; it’s a meticulously prepared protein elevated by a fresh, nutrient-rich Caprese topping. This combination transforms it into a complete and balanced meal, abundant in lean protein, essential nutrients, and an explosion of Mediterranean flavor. Serve it alongside a delightful side dish or two, and you’ll have a juicy chicken recipe that will earn rave reviews from everyone at the table, creating memorable meals with minimal effort.

What is Paillard Chicken?
The term “paillard” might sound sophisticated, perhaps even a bit daunting, but it simply refers to a piece of meat — not exclusively chicken, but commonly veal or pork as well — that has been pounded thinly before cooking. This classic French culinary technique is incredibly effective for several compelling reasons, making it a favorite among professional chefs and home cooks alike who seek to create quick, tender, and intensely flavorful meals.
When chicken breasts are prepared as paillard, they are pounded to a uniform thinness, typically about a quarter-inch or 0.6 centimeters. This precise preparation unlocks a cascade of benefits. Firstly, the physical act of pounding the meat gently breaks down its tough muscle fibers, which naturally tenderizes the chicken. This process guarantees a wonderfully succulent and easy-to-chew bite every single time, effectively preventing the common culinary pitfall of dry or rubbery chicken. Secondly, and perhaps most appealing for individuals navigating the demands of busy weeknights, the significantly reduced thickness drastically cuts down on the required cooking time. A properly prepared chicken paillard breast can be cooked in a matter of mere minutes on a hot grill or stovetop, transforming what could easily be a lengthy and time-consuming dinner preparation into a rapid, yet gourmet-quality meal.
Beyond the undeniable advantages of speed and tenderness, preparing the chicken as paillard also creates a significantly larger surface area. This increased surface area is crucial for maximizing the absorption of flavors from marinades and seasonings, resulting in a more deeply and intensely flavored dish that resonates with every bite. Furthermore, the uniform thinness of the meat ensures exceptionally even cooking, which is a critical factor for achieving perfectly juicy and moist chicken throughout. While the elegant term “paillard” may evoke images of exclusive fine dining, the actual process of preparing it at home is remarkably easy and consistently yields impressively delicious results, proving that culinary excellence doesn’t always require complex techniques.
This pounding method is particularly well-suited for grilling, as the thin chicken cooks swiftly and uniformly over direct heat, allowing for the development of beautiful, appetizing char marks and an irresistible smoky flavor without the risk of drying out the delicate meat. The inherently delicate nature of paillard also makes it an exceptional canvas for vibrant, fresh toppings, such as our Mediterranean-inspired Caprese mixture. This allows the inherent quality and natural flavors of each individual ingredient to truly shine through, culminating in a harmonious and memorable dish that is both light and profoundly satisfying.
The Irresistible Ingredients for Your Caprese Grilled Chicken
Crafting the perfect Caprese Grilled Chicken Paillard starts with a careful selection of fresh, premium-quality ingredients. Each component, thoughtfully chosen, plays an indispensable role in building the intricate layers of flavor and delightful textures that collectively make this dish not just good, but truly extraordinary. The synergy of these fresh elements is what elevates a simple grilled chicken into a gourmet experience.
For the Flavorful Chicken Marinade:
- Chicken: For this specific recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are unequivocally the ideal choice. Their naturally lean profile and exceptional ability to be easily pounded thin make them perfectly suited for rapid grilling. If you begin with particularly thick chicken breasts, it’s imperative to carefully butterfly them first – slicing them horizontally almost all the way through, then opening them flat like a book – to create thinner, more manageable cutlets. Alternatively, using pre-sliced chicken cutlets can streamline your preparation process, saving you a valuable step. The act of pounding is fundamentally key, as it not only naturally tenderizes the chicken but also drastically slashes the necessary cooking time, consistently ensuring a moist and juicy outcome.
- Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil forms the indispensable, aromatic base of our marinade. Its inclusion serves multiple crucial functions: it helps to deeply infuse the chicken with flavor, acts as an effective binder for the other seasonings, and significantly contributes healthy monounsaturated fats. Beyond its flavor-enhancing properties, olive oil also plays a vital role in retaining moisture within the meat during the grilling process, effectively preventing the chicken from becoming dry.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is an absolute non-negotiable ingredient, providing an essential pungent, savory depth that is foundational to the marinade’s character. By lightly pressing the whole cloves before incorporating them into the marinade, you facilitate the release of their natural oils and robust flavor, allowing them to deeply penetrate and imbue the chicken without the risk of burning during grilling.
- Parsley: Fresh flat-leaf parsley contributes a wonderfully bright, herbaceous, and clean note that elegantly cuts through the inherent richness of the olive oil and harmoniously complements the savory garlic. Its fresh, subtly peppery flavor adeptly balances the overall profile of the marinade, lending a gentle, green earthiness that enhances the chicken’s natural taste.
- Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: These two foundational seasonings are absolutely crucial for amplifying and enhancing all the other delicate and robust flavors present in the dish. Kosher salt provides a clean, nuanced salinity that balances the palate, while freshly ground black pepper adds a gentle, aromatic warmth and a subtle, delightful spice. Always remember to season to your personal taste, adjusting quantities based on your individual preferences for optimal flavor.
For the Vibrant Caprese Topping:
- Tomatoes: Sweet, plump, and inherently juicy cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes are the perfect choice for this topping. They offer delightful bursts of freshness with every single bite. Halving them not only allows their natural sweetness to meld beautifully with the other ingredients but also provides an appealing textural contrast. For an additional visual appeal and an extra dimension of flavor, consider incorporating a colorful mix of both red and yellow varieties.
- Mozzarella Pearls: Fresh mozzarella pearls, often known as bocconcini or ciliegine, are unequivocally the shining star of the Caprese topping. Their signature creamy, mild flavor and wonderfully soft texture are absolutely essential to the authentic Caprese experience. If you are unable to source pearls, a high-quality fresh mozzarella ball, expertly sliced into bite-sized cubes, will work just as beautifully and deliver similar results. The freshness of the mozzarella is of paramount importance for the integrity and flavor of this dish.
- Shallots: Finely diced shallots impart a delicate, subtly sweet, and wonderfully mild onion flavor that enhances the topping without ever overpowering the more prominent components. They are considerably less pungent than traditional red onions, offering a nuanced aromatic background that expertly enhances the inherent freshness of both the tomatoes and the basil.
- Basil: Fresh basil is, without a doubt, the aromatic heart and soul of any authentic Caprese dish. Its distinctive sweet, peppery, and subtly minty notes are truly irreplaceable. Always opt for fresh basil leaves, either roughly chopped or gently torn, to maximize its fragrant contribution and infuse the topping with its quintessential aroma.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A generous drizzle of a high-quality extra virgin olive oil acts as the unifying agent, elegantly binding all the Caprese ingredients together to create a light, fresh, and exceptionally flavorful “dressing.” Furthermore, the healthy fats present in olive oil play a crucial role in aiding the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins naturally found in the tomatoes, making the dish not only incredibly delicious but also significantly more nutritious.
- Salt and Pepper: A delicate pinch of kosher salt and a generous grind of fresh black pepper are essential for skillfully highlighting and intensifying the natural, vibrant flavors of the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. It is recommended to season the topping just before serving to ensure the freshest and most impactful taste.
- Balsamic Reduction: This lusciously sweet and tangily rich glaze serves as the ultimate finishing touch, elevating the Caprese topping with its concentrated, complex, and deeply nuanced flavor profile. The syrupy reduction adds a beautiful, glossy sheen and provides a delightful sweet-tart counterpoint to the savory chicken and the fresh, bright Caprese components. You can conveniently find pre-made balsamic glaze in most grocery stores, or for a more artisanal touch, you can easily prepare your own by gently simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens to a desired consistency.

Mastering the Caprese Grilled Chicken Paillard: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this exquisite Caprese Grilled Chicken Paillard is a surprisingly straightforward process that consistently yields impressive and mouth-watering results. By carefully following these simple, yet effective steps, you are guaranteed to achieve a truly memorable and delightful meal that will impress everyone at your table.
- Preheat and Prepare Your Grill: Begin by taking a sheet of aluminum foil and placing it carefully on your grill grates. This acts as a protective layer, essential for preventing the thinly pounded chicken from sticking, particularly if your grill grates are not perfectly seasoned or are prone to sticking. As an excellent alternative, you can generously brush the clean grill grates directly with a high smoke point oil, such as avocado oil. Next, preheat your grill to a consistent medium-high temperature, aiming for approximately 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This crucial step ensures that you have a uniformly hot cooking surface, which is vital for achieving a quick sear and even cooking across the thin chicken.
- Thin the Chicken to Perfection: If you are starting with thick, boneless, skinless chicken breasts, carefully butterfly each breast. To do this, slice it horizontally almost all the way through, then gently open it up like a book. Place the butterflied chicken (or your pre-thinned chicken cutlets) one at a time into a large, sturdy Ziplock bag, or alternatively, place them between two sheets of durable plastic wrap. Using the flat side of a meat mallet or, if you don’t have one, a sturdy rolling pin, gently but firmly pound the chicken. Your goal is to achieve a uniform thickness of approximately ¼ inch (about 0.6 cm). This crucial and meticulous step serves to tenderize the meat significantly and is the secret to guaranteeing rapid and wonderfully even cooking.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Once the chicken has been meticulously thinned, add the specified amount of olive oil, the lightly pressed whole garlic cloves, the roughly chopped fresh parsley, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper directly into the Ziplock bag with the chicken. Carefully seal the bag, making sure to expel as much air as possible, then gently massage the chicken from the outside of the bag. Ensure that every single piece of chicken is thoroughly and evenly coated in the fragrant marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate at room temperature for a duration of 20-25 minutes. This relatively short marinating time is perfectly sufficient for the thin chicken to absorb a wonderful depth of flavor, enriching its natural taste.
- Prepare the Fresh Caprese Topping: While your chicken is diligently marinating, take this opportunity to assemble your vibrant and fresh Caprese topping. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the carefully halved cherry or grape tomatoes, the equally well-prepared halved mozzarella pearls (or your diced fresh mozzarella), the finely diced shallots, and the fragrant chopped fresh basil. Drizzle these fresh ingredients generously with extra virgin olive oil and season them precisely with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Gently toss all the ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined, ensuring that each component is lightly coated in the olive oil. Set this colorful mixture aside to allow the flavors to beautifully meld and harmonize.
- Grill to Golden Perfection: Carefully transfer and place the marinated chicken paillard onto your preheated grill (whether directly on the oiled grates or on the protective foil). Grill for approximately 3 minutes per side. Due to its deliberate thinness, the chicken will cook remarkably quickly. Look for the development of beautiful, enticing golden-brown grill marks and, for food safety and optimal tenderness, ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) when precisely measured with an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken. Should you have any slightly thicker pieces, they may require a minuscule bit longer to cook through completely.
- Serve and Enjoy Immediately: Once the chicken is perfectly cooked and removed from the grill, artfully arrange the golden-grilled chicken paillard on a clean serving platter. Generously spoon the fresh and vibrant Caprese mixture over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring an even distribution of its colorful components. To add a final touch of sweet and tangy elegance, finish the dish with a delicate drizzle of balsamic reduction (or a good quality balsamic glaze). Serve this visually stunning and flavor-packed dish warm and immediately to savor its optimal flavor and unparalleled freshness.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Caprese Grilled Chicken Paillard
This Caprese Grilled Chicken Paillard isn’t just another item on your dinner menu; it’s a truly exceptional culinary experience that masterfully combines speed, healthful benefits, and gourmet-level flavors into one incredibly satisfying package. Here are the compelling reasons why this dish is destined to become an indispensable and beloved staple in your regular meal rotation:
- Effortlessly Quick: Imagine a homemade meal that comes together in just over 30 minutes from the very beginning of preparation to being ready on your plate. The innovative paillard technique is the secret, drastically reducing the required cooking time and making this dish an absolutely ideal choice for those hectic weeknights when you desperately crave a delicious, homemade meal but simply don’t have the luxury of a lengthy commitment in the kitchen.
- Bursting with Fresh Flavors: The harmonious combination of tender, garlic-herb marinated grilled chicken with the bright, sweet, and creamy textures of the Caprese topping creates a veritable symphony of Mediterranean flavors. Each and every bite delivers the delightful sweetness of perfectly ripe tomatoes, the invigorating freshness of aromatic basil, the luxurious creaminess of fresh mozzarella, all perfectly balanced with a subtle hint of tangy balsamic reduction.
- Healthy and Nutritious: This meal is a shining example of wholesome eating, meticulously packed with lean protein derived from the chicken, an abundance of essential vitamins contributed by the fresh, colorful vegetables, and beneficial healthy fats primarily from the olive oil. It’s a remarkably light dish that manages to be incredibly satisfying, making it an excellent choice for anyone committed to a balanced and nutritious diet.
- Summer Grilling Perfection: There’s an undeniable allure and distinct pleasure in the smoky char and distinctive flavor that only grilled chicken can offer. This particular recipe masterfully maximizes the inherent benefits of outdoor cooking, keeping your kitchen wonderfully cool and, most importantly, infusing the chicken with that irresistible, quintessential taste of summer.
- Versatile and Customizable: While the Caprese topping is undeniably sublime in its classic form, the entire dish is wonderfully adaptable to your personal preferences and creativity. Feel free to explore by incorporating different herbs into the marinade, adding a pinch of fiery red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or integrating other delicious seasonal vegetables into the topping to further personalize your meal.
- Impressive Yet Simple: The elegant and visually stunning presentation of the vibrant Caprese atop golden-grilled chicken artfully conceals the remarkable simplicity of its preparation. It is undoubtedly a dish that looks sophisticated enough to proudly serve to esteemed guests, yet remains refreshingly easy and straightforward enough for a casual and relaxed family dinner on any given evening.
- Family-Friendly: Even the most discerning and selective eaters will undoubtedly appreciate the tender, juicy chicken and the familiar, comforting flavors of ripe tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. It’s a dish that consistently proves to be a crowd-pleaser, bringing genuine joy and satisfaction to any dinner table, fostering shared culinary delight.
This recipe truly embodies the spirit of healthyish eating – delicious, nourishing, and never compromising on flavor or ease.
Expert Tips for Perfect Caprese Grilled Chicken Paillard Every Time
Achieving culinary perfection with your Caprese Grilled Chicken Paillard is wonderfully simple when you adhere to a few tried-and-true expert tips. These invaluable insights will meticulously guide you to ensure that your chicken is consistently juicy, your flavors remain vibrantly fresh, and your overall dish is a resounding and unforgettable success with every single preparation.
- Even Pounding is Key: The singular most crucial step in preparing impeccable paillard chicken is unequivocally achieving a uniform thinness, ideally around ¼ inch or 0.6 cm. Inconsistent pounding can unfortunately lead to undesirable outcomes, where some parts of the chicken cook much faster and consequently dry out, while other sections may remain undesirably undercooked. Always use the flat side of your meat mallet and systematically work from the center outwards, applying gentle but firm pressure. If you do not possess a meat mallet, a heavy rolling pin or even the sturdy bottom of a heavy pan, carefully wrapped in plastic wrap for hygiene, will serve as excellent substitutes.
- Don’t Over-Marinate: While marinating is undoubtedly essential for infusing flavor, paillard chicken, by virtue of its thinness, does not necessitate an extended soak. The thin nature of the meat allows it to rapidly absorb flavors. A period of 20-25 minutes at room temperature is typically more than sufficient. Over-marinating, especially with marinades containing acidic components, can, on occasion, break down the protein fibers excessively, potentially leading to an unpleasantly mushy texture.
- High Heat, Quick Cook: Grilling paillard chicken demands a cooking approach characterized by high heat and a very brief cooking duration. This specific method facilitates the creation of a beautiful, caramelized sear and appealing char marks while simultaneously ensuring that the interior of the chicken remains exquisitely moist and tender. It is advisable to avoid the temptation of continually flipping the chicken; instead, allow each side sufficient time to develop a delectable crust before turning.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For unwavering precision in cooking and, crucially, for absolute food safety, always rely on an instant-read meat thermometer. Chicken is considered safely cooked when its internal temperature consistently reaches 165°F (74°C). Given that paillard cooks with remarkable speed, it can transition from being perfectly done to regrettably overcooked in mere seconds, highlighting the importance of precise temperature monitoring.
- Rest the Chicken: After carefully removing the chicken from the grill, it is vital to allow it to rest for a brief period of 3-5 minutes on the serving platter before you proceed to add the Caprese topping. This critical resting period permits the internal juices to redistribute evenly throughout the entire meat, invariably resulting in chicken that is significantly more succulent and intensely flavorful.
- Fresh Ingredients for the Caprese: The extraordinary quality and vibrant appeal of the Caprese topping hinge entirely upon the freshness and inherent quality of its constituent components. It is imperative to utilize ripe, naturally sweet tomatoes, authentic fresh mozzarella (distinct from the typically drier block variety), and supremely fragrant, vibrant basil. These fresh, high-quality elements are precisely what make the topping truly outstanding and unforgettable.
- Balance the Balsamic Reduction: Balsamic reduction is known for its potent and concentrated flavor profile. Consequently, a light, judicious drizzle is typically all that is required to impart that perfect, nuanced touch of sweetness and desirable tang without inadvertently overwhelming the delicate and subtle flavors of the Caprese topping. You always have the option to offer additional reduction at the table for those who may desire a bit more.
- Consider Grill Alternatives: Do not fret if you lack access to an outdoor grill; a lack of one is certainly not a barrier to enjoying this delicious recipe! A high-quality grill pan on your stovetop, set over medium-high heat, can adeptly achieve similar enticing char marks and a wonderfully delicious, grilled flavor. As another viable alternative, baking the chicken paillard in a hot oven (preheated to 400°F/200°C for approximately 15-18 minutes) is also a fantastic option, though it is worth noting that you will naturally miss the distinct smoky char that only an open flame can impart.
Frequently Asked Questions About Caprese Grilled Chicken Paillard
Here are some common questions and helpful answers designed to ensure your Caprese Grilled Chicken Paillard preparation is not just successful, but truly exceptional:
How should I store leftovers?
For maintaining optimal freshness and quality, it is highly recommended to store the cooked grilled chicken and the Caprese topping in separate, airtight containers within the refrigerator. The tender chicken will gracefully retain its quality and taste for up to 3-4 days, while the vibrant Caprese mixture is best enjoyed within approximately 2-3 days to preserve the delicate freshness of the basil and the juicy integrity of the tomatoes. Storing these components separately is a simple yet effective strategy to help maintain the desirable texture of the chicken and the lively freshness of the topping. When you are ready to indulge in your leftovers, gently reheat the chicken to perfection and then generously top it with the fresh, un-reheated Caprese mixture. These versatile leftovers are not just a simple reheat; they transform into excellent, light lunches – consider tucking them inside a warm whole wheat wrap or artfully arranging them as a vibrant and protein-packed addition to a fresh green salad!
What should I serve with this grilled chicken paillard recipe?
This wonderfully versatile dish pairs exquisitely with a broad array of side dishes, allowing you to tailor your meal to be either lighter and refreshing or heartier and more substantial, depending entirely on your preference. For a more robust and satisfying meal, consider serving it alongside a perfectly cooked pasta dish, a rich and creamy risotto, or golden, fluffy roasted potatoes. If your aim is to maximize nutrient intake and maintain a lighter feel, grilled vegetables such as tender asparagus, crisp zucchini, colorful bell peppers, or a vibrant spring vegetable hash would all be superb choices that complement the chicken beautifully. Furthermore, a simple yet elegant green salad, tossed with a light and zesty vinaigrette, also serves as a refreshing and balancing accompaniment to the rich flavors of the main dish.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Absolutely, you can still achieve genuinely delicious results even if you do not have access to an outdoor grill! If an outdoor grill isn’t available, you have excellent alternative cooking methods at your disposal. A grill pan, placed over medium-high heat on your stovetop, can effectively impart those desirable char marks and a remarkably similar grilled texture to the chicken. As another fantastic option, you can bake the chicken paillard in a preheated oven at a temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) for approximately 15-18 minutes. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) for safe consumption. While the distinct smoky flavor unique to outdoor grilling will, of course, be absent, the chicken will still emerge wonderfully tender, moist, and exceptionally flavorful using these indoor methods.
Can I prepare any parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! You can certainly undertake some valuable prep work in advance to make your cooking day even smoother. The chicken breasts can be butterflied and meticulously pounded thin a day prior to cooking, then safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. As for the Caprese topping, its individual ingredients such as the tomatoes, mozzarella, and shallots can be chopped and prepped ahead of time. However, for the absolute best flavor and freshest texture, it is strongly recommended to combine them with the fresh basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper just before you are ready to serve. This thoughtful timing prevents the delicate basil from wilting prematurely and ensures the tomatoes do not release too much of their precious liquid, keeping the topping vibrant and fresh.
What variations can I try with the Caprese topping or marinade?
Feel completely liberated to unleash your culinary creativity with this recipe! For the chicken marinade, you could experiment by adding a subtle pinch of dried oregano or a refreshing squeeze of fresh lemon juice to introduce an extra zesty kick. If you possess a fondness for a touch of spice, a tiny amount of red pepper flakes would undoubtedly be a welcome addition, providing a gentle warmth. For the Caprese topping itself, consider substituting thinly sliced red onion for the shallots to achieve a slightly sharper, more robust bite, or incorporate a few briny Kalamata olives for an intriguing Mediterranean twist. A spoonful of vibrant pesto, either mixed directly into the Caprese topping or delicately spread onto the grilled chicken before applying the topping, would also be an absolutely delicious and highly recommended variation.
How to Store Leftovers
Ensuring your delicious Caprese Grilled Chicken Paillard remains fresh and flavorful for future enjoyment is both simple and practical. To maintain optimal quality, store any leftover grilled chicken and the Caprese mozzarella topping in separate, distinct airtight containers in the refrigerator. The perfectly cooked chicken will gracefully maintain its quality and taste for a period of up to 3-4 days, while the vibrant and fresh Caprese mixture is best consumed within 2-3 days to preserve the delicate freshness of the basil and the firm texture of the tomatoes.
When you’re ready to savor your leftovers once more, gently reheat the chicken. A quick pan-fry or a few minutes in a warm oven works exceptionally well to retain its moisture and tenderness. After the chicken is warmed through, generously spoon the fresh, un-reheated Caprese topping over it. These versatile leftovers are incredibly adaptable and make for a fantastic, quick, and satisfying lunch: consider tucking the succulent chicken and fresh Caprese into a soft whole wheat wrap, or artfully chop them up and serve them on a crisp bed of mixed greens for a vibrant, protein-packed salad. For more fresh, healthy, and easy-to-make chicken recipes, be sure to explore my delightful Greek chicken meatballs with tzatziki sauce.

Caprese Grilled Chicken Paillard Recipe
Sarah Thomas-Drawbaugh
4 servings
25 mins
10 mins
35 mins
Learn how to make a grilled chicken paillard recipe with a Caprese topping for a flavorful dinner ready to eat in just over 30 minutes!
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Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (from 1 vote)
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Equipment
- 1 gas grill
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 platter
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs. chicken breasts, butterflied and pounded
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2-3 cloves whole garlic, lightly pressed
- 2 tablespoons parsley, roughly chopped small
- pinch kosher salt, to season
- pinch pepper, to season
Caprese Mozzarella Topping
- 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
- ½ cup mozzarella pearls, sliced in half
- ½ cup shallots or sweet onion, diced small
- 2 tablespoons basil, fresh chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- kosher salt and pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons balsamic reduction, or glaze, drizzled on top
Instructions
- Place a sheet of foil on your grill, then preheat the grill to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Option to brush the grill grates with avocado oil instead of using foil.
- If your chicken breasts are thick, butterfly them (cut them in half horizontally) and add them to a Ziplock bag or between two sheets of plastic wrap. Gently pound the chicken using the soft side of a meat mallet or a rolling pin until it is uniformly about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) thick.
- Once the chicken is pounded thin, add the olive oil, pressed garlic cloves, chopped parsley, kosher salt, and pepper to the bag. Seal the bag closed and massage the chicken, making sure it is evenly coated in the marinade. Let the chicken marinate at room temperature for 20-25 minutes before grilling.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the Caprese topping. Combine the sliced tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, chopped basil, diced shallots, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Toss until well combined.
- Place the prepared chicken on the preheated grill. Grill for about 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown grill marks appear and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) when measured with a meat thermometer. Thicker chicken may require a bit longer to cook.
- Remove from the grill and arrange the chicken paillard on a serving platter. Top generously with the Caprese topping and a light drizzle of balsamic reduction. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Storage: Store the cooked chicken and Caprese mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, gently reheat the chicken and then add the fresh Caprese topping. Leftovers are excellent in wraps or salads.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 serving, Calories: 421kcal, Carbohydrates: 10g, Protein: 40g, Fat: 25g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g, Monounsaturated Fat: 14g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 113mg, Sodium: 508mg, Potassium: 872mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 5g, Vitamin A: 547IU, Vitamin C: 20mg, Calcium: 78mg, Iron: 2mg
Main Course
American
421
Sarah Thomas-Drawbaugh