Easy Chicken Caprese
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Basil pesto
Homemade or store-bought
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
low sodium, ), (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch in thickness each
- 1 tomato
sliced
- 2 tbsp Balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction
I used this one
- 8 Fresh basil leaves
leave 4 whole and slice the rest into ribbons
Directions
- 1
If the chicken breasts are large and thick, cut them horizontally through the middle to make thinner cutlets or pieces. If you like, use a kitchen mullet to tenderize and flatten the chicken breasts before cooking. This helps them quick quickly and evenly.
- 2
Pat the chicken dry and season with salt and pepper on both sides.
- 3
Heat an indoor griddle or pan over high heat. Drizzle about 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil to coat bottom of pan. (See notes if you prefer to use an outdoor grill).
- 4
Add the chicken and cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side or until done (chicken's internal temperature should register 165 degrees F).
- 5
In the last couple minutes or so of cooking, top each piece of chicken with a bit of the basil pesto then add a mozzarella slice on top.
- 6
Remove from heat. Add fresh basil leaves and tomato slices on top of each chicken piece and finish with a little balsamic reduction (or balsamic glaze). Finally, sprinkle fresh basil ribbons and serve!
Easy Chicken Caprese
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About this Recipe
Craving a vibrant, flavorful dinner that comes together in a flash? This Easy Chicken Caprese recipe brings the fresh, sun-kissed flavors of Italy to your table with minimal effort and maximum taste. It's the perfect way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss.
What makes this dish a weeknight hero is its incredible simplicity and speed. With only 10 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking, you can have a gourmet-level meal ready in about 20 minutes total. By focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients like juicy chicken, creamy fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, you create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes without complex steps.
Prepare for a delightful balance of savory and fresh. You'll enjoy tender, boneless, skinless chicken breasts, perfectly seasoned with kosher salt and black pepper, and seared in extra virgin olive oil. Each piece is then topped with luscious, melting low-sodium fresh mozzarella cheese. Every bite is brightened by the ripe, sliced tomato and the aromatic burst of fresh basil, all tied together with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. It’s a dish that feels sophisticated yet is incredibly approachable, making it perfect for a busy evening or a casual gathering.
While this recipe shines in its classic form, you have options to suit your pantry. Feel free to use your favorite store-bought basil pesto for convenience, or whip up a fresh batch if time allows. For the balsamic glaze, either a ready-made bottle or a simple reduction you've prepared at home will work beautifully to finish the dish. Ensure your fresh mozzarella slices are about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick for the best melt.
This Easy Chicken Caprese is fantastic for a light yet satisfying dinner, elegant enough for guests but simple enough for any weeknight. Serve it alongside a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.