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If you’re looking for a dish that feels fancy but is actually a breeze to make, this Caprese Chicken is your new best friend. Juicy, golden-brown chicken topped with melty mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and fragrant basil—finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s the perfect balance of hearty, fresh, and oh-so-flavorful. And the best part? It all comes together in under 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Caprese Chicken is proof that simple ingredients can create something absolutely delicious. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or an effortless crowd-pleaser, this dish has you covered!
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
- Fresh & Flavorful: Layers of creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and basil for a classic Italian vibe.
- Healthy & Satisfying: High in protein, low in carbs, and packed with nutrients.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Looks impressive but requires almost no fuss!
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Pro Tips
- Use high-quality mozzarella and tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Want more depth? Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the pan before cooking.
- If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness for even cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
- Add the Cheese: Place a slice of mozzarella on each chicken breast and cover the skillet until the cheese melts (about 1-2 minutes).
- Top with Fresh Ingredients: Remove from heat and layer on tomato slices and basil leaves.
- Drizzle with Balsamic: Finish by drizzling balsamic glaze over the top.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve immediately with your favorite side dish and enjoy every flavorful bite!
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don’t overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Let it rest: Giving the chicken 5 minutes to rest keeps it juicy!
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Grilled Caprese Chicken: Cook on the grill instead of a skillet for a smoky flavor.
- Stuffed Version: Slice the chicken breasts open and stuff with mozzarella and tomatoes before cooking.
- Serve with: A simple arugula salad, roasted veggies, or over a bed of garlic butter pasta.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time since thighs may take a little longer.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the chicken in advance and top with fresh ingredients just before serving.
What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
No problem! Use balsamic vinegar instead—just reduce it in a small saucepan with a little honey for a thicker drizzle.
Recipe Card
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Instructions:
- Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
- Top each chicken breast with mozzarella and cover until melted.
- Remove from heat and top with tomato slices and basil leaves.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve immediately.
Did you try this Caprese Chicken? Let me know how it turned out in the comments! And don’t forget to snap a pic and tag me on Instagram—nothing makes my day more than seeing your kitchen creations!
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