Baked Caprese Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 small chicken breasts)
(see notes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
divided
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup grape tomatoes
sliced
- 2 garlic cloves
minced
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup pearl mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
optional
Directions
- 1
Preheat oven to 400°.
- 2
Place chicken on a cutting board, then top it with a piece of plastic wrap. Pound the chicken down so it's all the same thickness. Remove the plastic wrap, then drizzle the chicken with 1 tbsp olive oil, and sprinkle it with the Italian seasoning and salt, using your hands to press the seasoning into the chicken.
- 3
Heat 1 tbsp oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken smooth side down into the skillet and sear it for 3-4 minutes, then flip it over and sear it for 2-3 minutes; remove the skillet from the heat.
- 4
Add the tomatoes and garlic to the skillet then drizzle everything with the remaining oil and balsamic vinegar. Place the skillet in the oven and bake the chicken for 15-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°. NOTE: cook time varies depending on the thickness of your chicken. I recommend checking it after 15 minutes and going from there.
- 5
Remove the skillet, then add the mozzarella cheese. Place the skillet back into the oven and set your oven to BROIL. Broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
- 6
Remove the skillet and sprinkle everything with fresh basil. Drizzle the chicken with the balsamic glaze and enjoy!
Baked Caprese Chicken
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 20 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Italy to your table without hours in the kitchen? This Baked Caprese Chicken combines classic garlic, tomato, balsamic, mozzarella, and basil into one delightful skillet meal, perfect for a weeknight. What makes this recipe truly special is how it marries the fresh, aromatic elements of a Caprese salad with tender chicken breasts in a simple baking process. It's quick to prepare, requiring only 15 minutes of prep, and uses readily available ingredients, making it an incredibly satisfying option that's ready in under 40 minutes.
Expect a harmonious blend of savory chicken, sweet grape tomatoes, pungent garlic, and tangy balsamic, all brought together by the creamy fresh mozzarella. The chicken will be tender and juicy, the tomatoes slightly burst, and the mozzarella beautifully melted and gooey. Each bite is a burst of Mediterranean sunshine, a comforting yet fresh meal that feels gourmet but is incredibly approachable for any home cook.
While perfect as is, you can easily adapt this dish to your pantry. If pearl mozzarella isn't available, a fresh mozzarella ball diced into small pieces works just as well. For the freshest flavor, use fresh basil, but in a pinch, you can sprinkle in dried basil during the cooking process. You can also adjust the amount of minced garlic to suit your preference.
This Baked Caprese Chicken is fantastic for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner. Serve it alongside a simple green salad, crusty bread to sop up the delicious juices, or over a bed of pasta or quinoa for a heartier meal. Drizzling with optional balsamic glaze right before serving elevates the presentation and flavor.