Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is the perfect balance of wholesome and indulgent. It’s high in protein, naturally gluten-free, and bursting with bright, fresh flavors. The chicken is seared to golden perfection, then topped with simple, quality ingredients for a restaurant-worthy finish. It’s fast, easy to make, and pairs well with a variety of sides—from pasta to salads or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- Fresh mozzarella (sliced)
- Fresh tomatoes (sliced; Roma or heirloom work well)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if finishing in the oven, or set a skillet to medium heat.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Turn off the heat. Top each piece of chicken with a slice of tomato and mozzarella.
- Transfer skillet to the oven (or cover and let sit on low heat) for 3–5 minutes, just until the cheese is melted.
- Remove from heat and top with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Grilled version: Grill the chicken breasts instead of pan-searing for a smokier flavor.
- Stuffed style: Butterfly the chicken and stuff it with mozzarella, tomato, and basil.
- Baked Caprese: Arrange everything in a baking dish and bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes.
- Keto-friendly: Serve over zoodles or cauliflower rice.
- Add pesto: Spread a thin layer of basil pesto under the cheese for even more flavor.
- Use cherry tomatoes: Slice and sauté cherry tomatoes for a sweeter twist.
Storage/Reheating
Let leftovers cool before storing.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through.
Avoid freezing, as the fresh tomato and mozzarella don’t freeze well.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and are often juicier. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Do I need to use fresh mozzarella?
Fresh mozzarella melts best and has a creamy texture, but low-moisture mozzarella can be used in a pinch.
What’s the best type of tomato for this recipe?
Roma, vine-ripened, or heirloom tomatoes work well. Choose ones that are firm and flavorful.
Can I make balsamic glaze at home?
Yes. Simmer balsamic vinegar over low heat until reduced by half and syrupy. Optionally add a bit of honey or sugar.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free—just make sure any balsamic glaze used is also gluten-free.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
You can season and sear the chicken in advance, then finish with toppings and bake just before serving.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer—internal temp should be 165°F (74°C).
What sides go well with Chicken Caprese?
Serve with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Can I add balsamic vinegar instead of glaze?
You can, but glaze is thicker and sweeter. If using vinegar, reduce the amount to avoid overpowering the dish.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, but for best results, store the chicken separately from the basil and drizzle the glaze just before serving.
Conclusion
Chicken Caprese is a simple yet stunning dish that combines fresh, wholesome ingredients into one unforgettable meal. With juicy chicken, creamy cheese, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic basil, it’s everything you love about Caprese salad—elevated into a satisfying entrée. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
PrintChicken Caprese
Chicken Caprese is a fresh and elegant main dish featuring juicy seared chicken breasts topped with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s a flavorful twist on the classic Caprese salad turned hearty meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop, Oven
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 8 slices fresh mozzarella
- 2 fresh tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if using oven finish, or heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in the skillet and sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Turn off heat. Top each chicken breast with a tomato slice and 1–2 slices of mozzarella.
- Transfer skillet to oven for 3–5 minutes, or cover skillet and heat on low until cheese melts.
- Remove from heat and top with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- For more flavor, spread a layer of pesto under the cheese before baking.
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness—165°F is ideal for chicken.
- Balsamic glaze adds sweetness—don’t substitute with raw vinegar unless reduced first.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with toppings
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
