Steps

1. 1

   Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.

2. 2

   Brush the chicken slices lightly with olive oil and season both sides with salt and black pepper.

3. 3

   Place the chicken on the hot grill pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until cooked through and grill marks appear.

4. 4

   While the chicken cooks, brush the bread slices with olive oil on both sides.

5. 5

   Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pan and set aside.

6. 6

   Place the bread slices on the grill pan and toast for 1-2 minutes per side until golden and crisp.

7. 7

   Assemble the sandwich by layering chicken slices on two bread slices, then add fresh mozzarella slices, tomato slices, and fresh basil leaves.

8. 8

   Drizzle balsamic glaze over the layered ingredients, then top with the remaining bread slices.

9. 9

   Cut sandwiches in half and serve immediately.

Tips from the chef

• Use thinly sliced chicken breast to reduce cooking time and ensure tenderness.

• If balsamic glaze is not available, reduce balsamic vinegar with a little sugar over low heat until syrupy.

• To speed up, you can use pre-cooked grilled chicken strips.

• For extra flavor, lightly press the sandwich in a panini press after assembling to melt the mozzarella.

• Fresh basil is key to authentic Caprese flavor; avoid dried basil.