Caprese Chicken Recipe
Craving something delightful and easy to prepare? This Caprese Chicken Recipe might just become your new favorite dish! With its fresh ingredients and succulent flavors, this dish showcases the incredible taste of summer any time of the year, perfectly marrying savory chicken with ripe tomatoes and aromatic basil.
I first encountered this delightful meal during a family trip to Italy, where I was taught by a kind, elderly chef. Her passion for fresh ingredients was infectious, and she insisted on plucking basil straight from her garden. That trip inspired me to recreate the dish at home, imbuing each bite with the warmth and tradition of Italian cooking, making it a go-to recipe for family gatherings to this day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Caprese Chicken Recipe offers a simple yet gourmet cooking experience you can enjoy any night of the week. The marriage of juicy chicken breasts with the vibrant trio of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or an elegant dinner party. Impressively, it requires minimal ingredients without sacrificing taste and quality, ensuring a clean and healthy meal option that doesn’t compromise on satisfaction.
Ingredients Notes
To ensure the best results, aim to use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Mozzarella delivers the creamiest texture when purchased fresh. Pick tomatoes that are firm yet ripe and bursting with flavor. If you can, opt for vine-ripened tomatoes for added sweetness. Basil should be fragrant and crisp, ideally plucked directly from a plant if available.
In case fresh mozzarella is unavailable, burrata can serve as a rich and slightly more decadent substitute. Large cherry tomatoes can work instead of traditional varieties for a sweeter bite.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown.
Step 2
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for about 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Remove from oven, but leave the oven on.
Step 3
Top each piece of chicken with slices of mozzarella cheese and tomatoes.
Step 4
Return the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze for an added touch of flavor before serving.
Storage Options
Leftover Caprese Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, place in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, keeping the chicken moist and tender. Avoid microwaving as this may toughen the chicken. If freezing, wrap each serving tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Be sure to thaw thoroughly before reheating.
Variations & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute the chicken breasts with skinless, boneless chicken thighs which remain juicy and flavorful. Vegetarians can replace chicken with eggplants or Portobello mushrooms for a meat-free alternative. Add a modern twist by incorporating avocado slices before baking for a creamy addition. If dairy-free, consider using a vegan cheese product that melts similarly to mozzarella.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky flavor that’s remarkably delicious. Simply grill the seasoned chicken over medium heat on each side until fully cooked, then top with cheese and tomatoes in the last few minutes to melt.
What can I serve alongside Caprese Chicken?
This versatile dish pairs excellently with a simple green salad or al dente pasta with olive oil and garlic. Garlic bread also makes for a great accompaniment, enhancing the Italian flavors.
How do I make a balsamic glaze?
To make a balsamic glaze at home, simmer 1 cup of balsamic vinegar with 2 tablespoons of honey or sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens. Let it cool, and it’s ready to drizzle over your Caprese Chicken and salads!
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Caprese Chicken Recipe
IngredientsÂ
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless chicken breasts about 6 oz each
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese sliced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- Top each chicken breast with sliced mozzarella and halved tomatoes.
- Close the grill lid and cook until the cheese is melted, about 2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
