If you love the fresh, vibrant flavors of a classic Caprese salad but want a heartier, protein-packed meal, then this Caprese Chicken Recipe is going to be your new go-to dinner. It’s a beautiful harmony of juicy seared chicken breasts topped with melted mozzarella, sweet blistered cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a tangy balsamic glaze that brings everything together perfectly. Ready in about 20 minutes, this recipe is a simple yet irresistible way to enjoy all the tastes of summer in one satisfying dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because it uses just a handful of fresh, uncomplicated ingredients that really let each flavor sing. Every item you add plays an important role in balancing taste, texture, or color—making the dish as delightful to eat as it is to look at.
- Canola oil: A neutral oil perfect for getting a golden sear on the chicken without overpowering any flavors.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts (4, 4-oz each): The hearty base of the dish that cooks quickly and pairs beautifully with the toppings.
- Cherry tomatoes (½ lb, halved): These burst with juicy sweetness and blister nicely when cooked, adding fresh pop and color.
- Fresh mozzarella (8 oz, sliced into 4 discs): Melts rich and creamy on top of the chicken to lend a luscious texture.
- Shredded basil (2 tbsp): Adds bright herbaceous notes and an unmistakable aroma classic to Caprese flavors.
- Balsamic glaze (2 tbsp): The final drizzle of tangy sweetness that elevates the entire dish with a glossy finish.
How to Make Caprese Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken
Start by heating the canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the chicken breasts in the pan and cook them undisturbed for a few minutes on each side, achieving a golden brown crust. This sear locks in juices and creates a beautiful caramelized flavor on the outside while ensuring the chicken stays tender inside.
Step 2: Add the Cherry Tomatoes
About 2 minutes before the chicken is fully cooked, nestle in the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken. Let them cook just enough to warm through and blister slightly, which intensifies their natural sweetness and adds a lovely charred contrast to the tender chicken.
Step 3: Melt the Mozzarella
Now, place the slices of fresh mozzarella directly on top of each chicken breast. Turn off the stove and cover the skillet with a lid, letting the residual heat gently melt the cheese until it’s soft and gooey. This step transforms the dish into a cheesy, melty masterpiece.
Step 4: Final Assembly
Serve the chicken breasts with blistered tomatoes on top, sprinkle generously with shredded basil leaves, and finish by drizzling the balsamic glaze all over the dish. This layer of balsamic adds a sweet and tangy zing that ties everything perfectly together.
How to Serve Caprese Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is key here—it brightens the whole plate and amplifies that classic Caprese salad vibe. You can also add a few fresh, whole cherry tomatoes on the side and a final light sprinkle of sea salt and cracked black pepper for that extra flavor boost.
Side Dishes
This dish is so flavorful and satisfying that simple sides work best. Think a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or garlic roasted asparagus. If you want something heartier, creamy risotto or garlic mashed potatoes make wonderful accompaniments that soak up the balsamic glaze beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, arrange the chicken on a large serving platter layered with basil leaves and whole cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the balsamic glaze artistically over the plate with a spoon or squeeze bottle. Another fun option is to serve the components deconstructed, allowing guests to build their own Caprese Chicken on their plates using the mozzarella, tomatoes, and chicken separately.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken will keep well, though the mozzarella may firm up once chilled. Simply warm gently before serving again for the best texture.
Freezing
Because the dish features fresh tomatoes and delicate cheese, freezing is not ideal as it can compromise texture and flavor. For best results, enjoy the Caprese Chicken Recipe fresh, or freeze the cooked chicken breasts alone without toppings for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a low oven or covered skillet over medium-low heat to warm through evenly without drying out the chicken or toughening the cheese. Adding a splash of water and covering helps keep things moist. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the texture delicious.
FAQs
Can I use other types of tomatoes for this Caprese Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes work great for blistering and sweetness, grape tomatoes or thinly sliced Roma tomatoes also work well. Just adjust cooking time slightly to prevent over-softening.
Is it necessary to slice the chicken breasts in half for this recipe?
Slicing the chicken breasts in half lengthwise helps them cook faster and more evenly, which is especially useful if your chicken breasts are on the thicker side. It’s not required, but definitely makes cooking easier and serving portions more manageable.
Can I use a balsamic vinegar reduction instead of balsamic glaze?
Yes, a balsamic reduction works perfectly as a substitute. Just simmer balsamic vinegar until it thickens into a syrupy consistency before drizzling. This homemade option is delicious and allows you to control sweetness.
What can I substitute for fresh basil if I don’t have any?
If fresh basil isn’t available, try fresh oregano or parsley for a slightly different but still fresh herb flavor. Dried basil is less ideal here since fresh basil’s bright aroma is key for the dish’s signature taste.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
This Caprese Chicken Recipe is great for meal prep because it reheats well and stays flavorful. You can prepare the chicken and tomatoes in advance, then add fresh basil and balsamic glaze just before eating to keep those bright flavors fresh.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this vibrant and comforting Caprese Chicken Recipe. It’s a lovely way to bring the flavors of a classic Italian salad into a warm, satisfying meal anyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish offers unbeatable taste with minimal effort. Give it a try and let the fresh, juicy ingredients win you over!
Print
Caprese Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Caprese Chicken is a delightful twist on the classic Caprese salad, featuring seared chicken breasts topped with fresh mozzarella, blistered cherry tomatoes, and finished with fragrant basil and a sweet balsamic glaze. This easy, flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal and is ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Cooking
- 1 tbsp canola oil
- 4 (4-oz) boneless skinless chicken breast halves
Topping and Garnish
- ½ lb cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into 4 discs
- 2 tbsp shredded basil
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Heat the Oil and Sear Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and cook for several minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown sear and are cooked through.
- Add Cherry Tomatoes: Approximately 2 minutes before the chicken finishes cooking, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are heated through and their skins are lightly blistered.
- Top with Mozzarella and Melt: Place slices of fresh mozzarella on top of each chicken breast. Turn off the stove and cover the skillet with a lid to allow the cheese to melt gently over the chicken.
- Plate and Garnish: Serve the chicken topped with the blistered tomatoes and melted mozzarella. Sprinkle shredded basil over the top and finish by drizzling balsamic glaze to taste.
Notes
- To ensure even cooking, slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to reduce thickness.
- Use fresh mozzarella for the best melting quality and flavor.
- Balsamic glaze can be substituted with a balsamic reduction if glaze is unavailable.
- Serve immediately for optimal cheese melt and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
