Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Caprese Chicken is a perfect balance of fresh ingredients, savory flavors, and protein-packed chicken. The combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil on top of tender chicken breasts creates a light yet satisfying dish. With a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added depth of flavor, this meal is both refreshing and rich in taste. Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or healthy eating lifestyle, this dish is an ideal choice, offering a burst of freshness with every bite.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
1 ½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra tang)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly coat the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and oregano (if using).
Cook the chicken on the grill or in the skillet for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the caprese topping: In a mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss well and set aside.
Once the chicken is cooked through, top each breast with slices of fresh mozzarella.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet (or if grilling, move the chicken to indirect heat), and let the chicken sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove the chicken from the heat and spoon the tomato and basil mixture on top of each breast.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze and, if desired, a little balsamic vinegar for extra tang.
Serve immediately, garnished with more fresh basil if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add avocado: For extra creaminess, top the chicken with slices of avocado before serving.
Use chicken thighs: If you prefer dark meat, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative and tend to stay juicier.
Grill the chicken: For added flavor, grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet for a smoky touch.
Add pesto: For a rich, herbal kick, drizzle some pesto over the chicken before serving.
Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Caprese Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out. If the cheese has solidified, you can cover it with a lid and warm it until the cheese softens again.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best to cook the chicken fresh, but you can prepare the tomato and basil topping ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 1 day.

2. Can I use store-bought mozzarella?

Yes, you can use store-bought mozzarella, but for the best flavor and texture, fresh mozzarella is highly recommended.

3. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

4. Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, you can use regular tomatoes, but cherry or grape tomatoes tend to be sweeter and juicier, making them perfect for this recipe.

5. Can I make this recipe without the balsamic glaze?

Yes, if you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can use balsamic vinegar for a tangier flavor, or omit it entirely if you prefer a simpler taste.

6. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?

Fresh basil works best for this recipe due to its vibrant flavor, but if you need to use dried basil, use about 1 teaspoon instead of the fresh basil.

7. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach for more variety.

8. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?

Yes, you can make Caprese Chicken on the stovetop in a skillet. Just make sure to cover the skillet to melt the mozzarella cheese properly.

9. Can I freeze Caprese Chicken?

While the chicken can be frozen, it’s best to freeze the chicken on its own and not the fresh tomatoes or basil, as they won’t retain their texture once frozen.

10. How can I serve Caprese Chicken?

Caprese Chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables, a green salad, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.

Conclusion

Caprese Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The freshness of the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil paired with tender, juicy chicken makes for a meal that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With minimal prep and a few fresh ingredients, you’ll have a wholesome meal on the table in no time. Enjoy the fresh Italian-inspired flavors of Caprese Chicken today!

Caprese Chicken

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Author: Ava
Total Time: 25min
Yield: 4servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Caprese Chicken is a simple, flavorful, and satisfying dish that combines the best of Italian cuisine: fresh tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, and a balsamic glaze—perfectly paired with juicy chicken breasts. This dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a great option for a healthy, quick weeknight meal or a weekend dinner that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.

Instructions

Preheat Grill/Skillet: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly coat the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and oregano (if using).
Cook the Chicken: Cook the chicken on the grill or in the skillet for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Prepare the Caprese Topping: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the tomato and basil topping. In a mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss well and set aside.
Top with Mozzarella: Once the chicken is cooked through, top each breast with slices of fresh mozzarella.
Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet (or if grilling, move the chicken to indirect heat), and let the chicken sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Assemble & Serve: Remove the chicken from the heat and spoon the tomato and basil mixture on top of each breast. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and, if desired, a little balsamic vinegar for extra tang. Serve immediately, garnished with more fresh basil if desired.

Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 15min
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American