Name: Caprese Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (5–8 oz. each); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed; 2 cups grape or cherry tomatoes, divided (about 1 pint); 8 oz. fresh mozzarella, cut into four 1/2 inch thick slices; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

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Introduction

Caprese Chicken is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining, it’s a flavorful twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad.

The image shows a close-up of a white pan filled with cooked chicken pieces, topped with slices of melted white cheese. On top of the cheese and chicken are whole and halved bright red cherry tomatoes, lightly cooked and glistening. A dark brown balsamic sauce is being poured from a spoon over the tomatoes and cheese, adding a glossy texture. Thin green basil strips are sprinkled over the dish. The background has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (5–8 oz. each)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
2 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
2 cups grape or cherry tomatoes, divided (about 1 pint)
8 oz. fresh mozzarella, cut into four 1/2″ thick slices
Fresh basil, to garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Step 4: Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 minutes.
Step 5: Return the chicken and any plate juices to the skillet. Stir the plate juices into the balsamic sauce and turn the chicken to coat fully on both sides.
Step 6: Add 1 1/2 cups of whole grape or cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 400°F on the middle rack for 10 minutes.
Step 7: In the last 5 minutes of baking, top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella. Continue cooking until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F and the cheese has melted.
Step 8: Slice the remaining 1/2 cup tomatoes in half and scatter them over the chicken. Drizzle additional balsamic sauce over the top, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken with olive oil and Italian seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches safe internal temperature without overcooking.
Swap fresh mozzarella for burrata for a creamier texture.
Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a slight kick.

Storage

Store leftover Caprese Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven until hot. Avoid microwave reheating to keep the mozzarella from becoming rubbery.

How to Serve

The image shows a pan with cooked chicken breasts, each topped with a smooth white layer of melted cheese. Surrounding the chicken are many bright red cherry tomatoes, some whole and some cut in half, sitting in a dark, glossy sauce that pools at the bottom of the pan. Thin strips of fresh green herbs are scattered over the dish, adding a touch of color contrast. The pan itself is a light speckled beige, and the scene is set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and maintain moisture. If using frozen, thaw completely before seasoning and cooking.

What can I serve with Caprese Chicken?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of pasta to soak up the delicious balsamic sauce.