This Baked Caprese Chicken is a delicious treat! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil for a meal that feels fancy but is super easy to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they stay moist and cook evenly. If desired, you can use thighs for richer flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add juicy sweetness. If they’re not in season, try grape tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes for a hint of tomato flavor.
Fresh Mozzarella: It melts beautifully and adds that creamy texture. For a firmer cheese, consider using provolone or gouda. Vegan mozzarella is also a great alternative!
Basil: Fresh basil leaves give a lovely aroma. If you can’t get fresh ones, use a teaspoon of dried basil instead. Just remember, the flavor will be slightly different!
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is essential for this recipe. The key is to sear it first and then bake, as it locks in juices and flavor. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready when the chicken is seared.
- Season the chicken well to enhance flavor. Remember to coat both sides!
- Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden. This step adds a nice crust.
- When baking, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer helps!
Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy. Enjoy your Baked Caprese Chicken!
How to Make Baked Caprese Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (optional, for drizzling or sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Baked Caprese Chicken will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll be enjoying this meal in about 35 minutes! Perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it will be hot and ready for the chicken once you’re done preparing it!
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Make sure to sprinkle the seasoning evenly for the best flavor!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This helps to lock in the juices!
4. Add the Cheese:
After searing, remove the skillet from the heat. Place the slices of fresh mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast. Make sure they are nicely covered!
5. Top with Tomatoes:
Next, arrange the halved cherry tomatoes over the chicken and mozzarella. This adds color and flavor to your dish!
6. Add Garlic and Basil:
Sprinkle the minced garlic and chopped fresh basil over everything in the skillet. The garlic adds a lovely aroma while the basil gives a fresh taste!
7. Bake It:
Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (check for an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Final Touches:
Once baked, take the skillet out of the oven. Drizzle a little extra olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the top, if you like. This gives it a delicious finishing touch!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with additional fresh basil before serving. Serve your Baked Caprese Chicken hot, and enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe and will provide a richer flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a little longer to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Balsamic Vinegar?
No worries! If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. For a similar sweetness, you can also add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to any vinegar you choose!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step a day in advance. Just cover the skillet tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to cook, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave or oven until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help keep it moist during reheating!
