Caprese Chicken Recipe

In our home, weeknight dinners often feel like a race against the clock. Between school pick-ups, after-school activities, and the general whirlwind of daily life, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can be a real challenge. That’s why recipes like this Caprese Chicken are absolute lifesavers. I stumbled upon this recipe a few weeks ago while searching for something new to do with chicken breasts – a staple in our fridge, but sometimes a bit… predictable. Let me tell you, this Caprese Chicken is anything but predictable! The vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all bathed in a rich balsamic sauce, completely transformed the humble chicken breast into a restaurant-worthy dish. Even my pickiest eater, who usually turns his nose up at anything green, devoured his portion, declaring it “amazing!” The balsamic sauce is the real star here, adding a depth of flavor that is both sweet and tangy, perfectly complementing the juicy chicken and melty cheese. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, coming together in under an hour, from prep to plate. This Caprese Chicken has quickly become a family favorite, and I have a feeling it will be a regular on our dinner table for years to come. If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and impressive meal that will have everyone asking for seconds, look no further. This recipe is a guaranteed winner!

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Caprese Chicken:

Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Opt for breasts that are relatively uniform in size for even cooking. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, you may want to butterfly them for quicker cooking.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing all the other flavors in the dish. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its robust taste.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning – This blend of herbs adds a classic Italian touch to the chicken. You can find pre-made Italian seasoning in most grocery stores, or create your own blend using dried oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Used for searing the chicken, olive oil provides a healthy fat and contributes to the golden-brown crust we’re aiming for. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior flavor.
• 8 slices fresh mozzarella, whole milk/low moisture melts best – Fresh mozzarella is key to the Caprese flavor profile. Whole milk mozzarella will provide a richer, creamier melt, while low-moisture mozzarella will be less watery. Either will work, but for the best results, choose whole milk.
• 1 whole tomato, thinly sliced – A ripe, juicy tomato is essential. Roma tomatoes or beefsteak tomatoes work well. Slice them thinly so they cook through and become tender in the oven.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes – Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and acidity. Use a variety of colors for a visually appealing dish.

Balsamic Sauce:

• 1/3 cup dry white wine, see notes – A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works beautifully in this sauce. The acidity of the wine helps to balance the sweetness of the balsamic vinegar and honey. If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with chicken broth, but the wine adds a depth of flavor that is highly recommended.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is crucial for the flavor of the balsamic sauce. Mince it finely to release its aromatic oils.
• 3 tablespoons butter – Butter adds richness and silkiness to the sauce. Unsalted butter is recommended so you can control the saltiness of the dish.
• 1/3 cup Balsamic vinegar – High-quality balsamic vinegar is key. Look for a balsamic vinegar that is thick and syrupy, with a good balance of sweetness and acidity. Avoid the very cheap, watery balsamic vinegars as they will lack depth of flavor.
• 1/3 cup chicken broth – Chicken broth adds moisture to the sauce and helps to create a flavorful base. Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended to control the salt content.
• 3 tablespoons honey – Honey adds sweetness and balances the acidity of the balsamic vinegar. You can use other sweeteners like maple syrup or brown sugar, but honey provides a unique floral note that complements the other ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil – Dried basil adds an extra layer of herbaceous flavor to the sauce.

For Serving:

• Fresh Basil – Fresh basil is essential for the classic Caprese flavor. Use it as a garnish to add a burst of fresh, aromatic flavor and a beautiful pop of green.
• Balsamic Glaze – Balsamic glaze is a reduced balsamic vinegar that is sweeter and thicker. It adds a beautiful glossy finish and a concentrated balsamic flavor. You can buy pre-made balsamic glaze or make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens.
• Freshly Cracked Pepper – A final sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper enhances all the flavors and adds a bit of spice.

Instructions

Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to create your own restaurant-quality Caprese Chicken at home:

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Chicken

• Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will ensure the chicken cooks quickly and the cheese melts beautifully.
• Prepare the chicken breasts. If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half lengthwise to create thinner slices. This will help them cook more evenly and quickly.
• Place the sliced chicken breasts in a gallon-sized freezer bag or between sheets of plastic wrap. Using the textured side of a meat mallet, pound the chicken to an even ½ inch thickness. Pounding tenderizes the chicken and ensures it cooks through quickly and evenly.
• Once pounded, pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step for achieving a good sear. Excess moisture will prevent the chicken from browning properly.
• Season both sides of each chicken breast generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it’s what gives the chicken its flavor base.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

• Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is large enough to comfortably fit all the chicken pieces without overcrowding. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the sauce to a baking dish later.
• Once the oil is hot and shimmering (but not smoking), carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the skillet and cause the chicken to steam instead of sear.
• Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until a golden-brown crust has developed. Resist the urge to move the chicken around too much while searing – allow it to sit undisturbed to develop a good sear. The golden-brown crust adds flavor and texture to the dish.
• Once seared on both sides, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Balsamic Sauce

• Reduce the heat in the skillet to medium. Pour the dry white wine into the hot skillet.
• Use a silicone spatula to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom and sides of the pan. These browned bits, known as fond, are packed with flavor and will enhance the sauce.
• Let the wine reduce by half, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Reducing the wine concentrates its flavor and removes the harsh alcohol taste.
• Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt completely.
• Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for 2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
• Pour in the balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, and honey. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
• Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer and reduce for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened. Simmering reduces the sauce and intensifies its flavor.
• Remove the skillet from the heat.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

• If your skillet is not oven-safe, transfer the balsamic sauce to a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
• Nestle the seared chicken breasts into the sauce in the baking dish, along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate. These juices are full of flavor and should be added to the sauce.
• Top each piece of chicken with 2 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese and 1 slice of thinly sliced tomato.
• Sprinkle the dried basil evenly over the chicken and tomatoes.
• Arrange the cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the baking dish.

Step 5: Bake and Broil

• Bake in the preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is just melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the cheese to prevent it from browning too much.
• Switch the oven to broil. Broil at 425°F (or a low broil setting if your broiler is very powerful) for about 2 minutes, or until the cheese is lightly browned and golden. Watch it very carefully during this time, as broiling can go from perfectly browned to burnt very quickly.
• Remove the baking dish from the oven.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Drizzle the Caprese Chicken generously with balsamic glaze.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
• Finish with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper.
• Serve immediately and enjoy! Caprese Chicken pairs beautifully with roasted asparagus or roasted potatoes, as suggested in the original recipe.

Nutrition Facts

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. This is an approximate calculation per serving.)

Servings: 4

Approximate Calories Per Serving: 550-650 calories

• Protein: 40-50g (from chicken and mozzarella)
• Fat: 30-40g (from olive oil, butter, mozzarella)
• Carbohydrates: 20-30g (from balsamic vinegar, honey, tomatoes, wine)

Disclaimer: These values are estimates. For precise nutritional information, use a calorie tracking app and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal because it is quick and easy to prepare without sacrificing flavor. The active cooking time is relatively short, allowing you to get dinner on the table in under an hour.

How to Serve Caprese Chicken

Caprese Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to make it a complete and satisfying meal:

• Classic Sides:
  • Roasted Asparagus: A simple and healthy side that complements the Italian flavors of the chicken. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast alongside the chicken or separately.
  • Roasted Potatoes: Choose your favorite type of potato – Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or sweet potatoes all work well. Roast them with herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
  • Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a welcome addition to an Italian-inspired meal. Serve it alongside the chicken to soak up the delicious balsamic sauce.
  • Pasta: A simple pasta like spaghetti or penne, tossed with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, makes a hearty side dish.
• Fresh and Light Sides:
  • Caprese Salad: Embrace the Caprese theme by serving a classic Caprese salad as a starter or side. Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
  • Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
  • Cucumber and Tomato Salad: A light and refreshing salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and a lemon-herb dressing.
• Grain-Based Sides:
  • Quinoa: Cooked quinoa is a healthy and nutritious side that pairs well with the flavors of Caprese Chicken.
  • Rice: Plain white rice, brown rice, or risotto can be served alongside the chicken to absorb the delicious balsamic sauce.
  • Couscous: Fluffy couscous is a quick and easy side dish that complements the Italian flavors.
• Serving Suggestions for Presentation:
  • Individual Plates: Plate each chicken breast on individual plates with your chosen sides for an elegant presentation.
  • Family Style: Serve the Caprese Chicken family-style in the baking dish, allowing everyone to help themselves. Garnish with extra fresh basil and balsamic glaze before bringing it to the table.
  • Garnish Extravaganza: Don’t be shy with the garnishes! Extra fresh basil leaves, a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze, and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper elevate the presentation and flavor of the dish.

Additional Tips for Perfect Caprese Chicken

Here are 5 additional tips to help you make the best Caprese Chicken every time:

1. Pound the Chicken Evenly: Taking the time to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness is crucial for even cooking. This prevents some parts of the chicken from being overcooked while others are still raw. It also helps tenderize the chicken, resulting in a more juicy and tender final product.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan When Searing: When searing the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding lowers the temperature of the oil, which will cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. Sear the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets a beautiful golden-brown crust.
3. Use High-Quality Balsamic Vinegar: The balsamic sauce is a key component of this dish, so using a good quality balsamic vinegar will make a significant difference in the flavor. Look for a balsamic vinegar that is thick and syrupy, with a rich, complex flavor. Avoid the very inexpensive, watery balsamic vinegars as they will lack depth.
4. Don’t Overbake the Chicken: Chicken breasts can become dry if overcooked. Bake the chicken just until it is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The broiling step should be brief and only to brown the cheese, not to cook the chicken further.
5. Fresh Basil is Best: While dried basil is used in the sauce for a subtle background flavor, fresh basil is essential for the final garnish. The bright, aromatic flavor of fresh basil truly elevates the Caprese flavors and adds a fresh, vibrant element to the dish. Don’t skip it!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are 5 frequently asked questions about making Caprese Chicken:

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A: Yes, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Chicken thighs are more forgiving and tend to stay moist even if slightly overcooked. However, they will take a bit longer to cook than chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C) for optimal tenderness.

Q2: I don’t have white wine, can I still make the balsamic sauce?

A: Yes, you can substitute the white wine in the balsamic sauce with chicken broth. While the wine adds a depth of flavor, chicken broth will still create a delicious sauce. You could also try using a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a touch of acidity if you want to mimic the wine’s effect.

Q3: Can I make Caprese Chicken ahead of time?

A: While Caprese Chicken is best served fresh, you can prepare some components ahead of time. You can pound and season the chicken breasts and make the balsamic sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, sear the chicken, assemble the dish, and bake as directed. Assembling and baking too far in advance can make the mozzarella watery and the chicken less juicy.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

A: Absolutely! Caprese Chicken is delicious with added vegetables. Consider adding sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant to the baking dish along with the cherry tomatoes. Roast them alongside the chicken for a more substantial and vegetable-rich meal.

Q5: Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella instead of fresh mozzarella slices?

A: While you can use pre-shredded mozzarella in a pinch, fresh mozzarella slices are highly recommended for Caprese Chicken. Fresh mozzarella has a superior texture and flavor that melts beautifully and complements the other ingredients perfectly. Pre-shredded mozzarella often contains cellulose to prevent clumping, which can affect its melting quality and taste. For the best Caprese Chicken experience, stick with fresh mozzarella slices.

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