This Easy Baked Caprese Chicken combines juicy chicken breasts with fresh tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. It’s drizzled with balsamic glaze for that extra flavor kick!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using turkey cutlets. For a more flavorful option, chicken thighs work great too!
Fresh Mozzarella: This cheese adds creaminess and melts beautifully. If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, shredded mozzarella cheese can be a good substitute. For a twist, use provolone for a slightly different taste.
Basil: Fresh basil gives a lovely aroma and flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil instead, but fresh is always better for this recipe!
Balsamic Glaze: This optional drizzle adds a sweet tang. If you don’t have it, a simple balsamic vinegar will work, or you could even try a splash of lemon juice for a different zing!
How Do I Sear the Chicken Perfectly?
Searing chicken helps lock in flavors and moisture. Here are some straightforward tips:
- Use medium heat on a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet.
- Make sure your oil is hot before adding the chicken. It should shimmer but not smoke.
- Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side but don’t worry about cooking it fully—it’s going in the oven later.
With this technique, your chicken will be juicy and full of flavor when baked! Happy cooking!
Easy Baked Caprese Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Time Estimate:
This recipe will take around 10 minutes to prepare and about 20-25 minutes to bake, for a total time of approximately 35 minutes. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and season both sides with the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste. This will add a wonderful flavor to the chicken.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until they’re golden brown but not fully cooked. They will finish cooking in the oven!
4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared baking dish. Scatter the cherry tomatoes around the chicken. Then sprinkle the minced garlic over both the chicken and tomatoes to infuse delicious flavor.
5. Add Tomatoes and Cheese:
Layer the sliced large tomatoes and fresh mozzarella cheese over each chicken breast, making it look all nice and colorful!
6. Drizzle with Balsamic:
Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over everything, which adds a tangy and sweet flavor. Sprinkle the sliced fresh basil leaves over the top for added freshness and aroma.
7. Bake:
Now, pop the baking dish into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Finish Up:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. If you like, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top for added sweetness. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves to make it look pretty.
9. Serve:
Serve your Easy Baked Caprese Chicken warm with your choice of side, such as roasted vegetables or a light salad. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy Easy Baked Caprese Chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more moisture and flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly if they are larger or thicker than breasts.
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil (1 teaspoon) or even Italian seasoning as a substitute. While the flavor will be different, it will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, ensuring the chicken is warmed through and the cheese is melty again!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and layer it in the baking dish a few hours in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
