Chicken Caprese
Chicken Caprese is the perfect combination of simple, fresh ingredients that deliver incredible flavor with minimal effort.
Juicy chicken breasts, creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze make this dish a standout.
It’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or when you want to impress without stress.
Chicken Caprese Recipe Highlights
- Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Minimal ingredients that pack a big flavor punch.
- One-pan preparation means less cleanup for you!
- Versatile enough for casual meals or a dinner party centerpiece.
- A great way to use fresh basil and tomatoes from the garden.
Ingredient Notes
Please check the recipe card below for a detailed, printable ingredient list.
CHICKEN – We use boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook quickly and stay tender when prepared correctly. Pounding thicker pieces to an even thickness helps ensure they cook evenly. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work as a great substitute for those who prefer dark meat.
OIL – Olive oil is ideal for this recipe. It helps the chicken develop a golden sear and adds a light, rich flavor. Avocado oil is another great option if needed.
SEASONING – Italian seasoning brings a balanced blend of herbs to the chicken. Salt and black pepper enhance the flavor and help bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
CHEESE – Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and creates a creamy texture that complements the chicken. Mozzarella packed in water works best. Sliced block mozzarella is a great backup. Avoid pre-shredded mozzarella because it doesn’t melt smoothly.
TOMATOES – Grape tomatoes are naturally sweet and hold their shape well. Slicing them in half allows the juices to mingle with the other ingredients while keeping the dish balanced. Cherry tomatoes are a good alternative if needed.
BASIL – Fresh basil adds a fragrant and slightly sweet note. Tearing the leaves by hand prevents bruising and keeps them vibrant. Add the basil just before serving to preserve its flavor and color.
GLAZE – Balsamic glaze ties everything together with its sweet and tangy flavor. It is often sold in convenient squeeze bottles. Making your own is simple. Simmer balsamic vinegar with a bit of sugar until it thickens to a syrupy consistency.
How To Make Chicken Caprese
Please check the printable recipe card below for more detailed instructions.
- Season chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the chicken in olive oil over medium-high heat in an oven-safe skillet for 5-6 minutes per side.
- Top with mozzarella, then bake at 375º Fahrenheit for 12-15 minutes until cooked through and the cheese melts.
- Rest for 5 minutes, then add grape tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze before serving.
Leftovers and Storage
STORE – Place any leftover Chicken Caprese in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Keeping it well-sealed helps preserve the flavor and prevents it from drying out.
FREEZE – While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken without the tomatoes and basil for up to 2 months. For freezing, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. Add the fresh toppings after reheating to maintain the dish’s vibrant flavors.
REHEAT – Warm leftovers in a covered skillet over medium heat to retain their moisture. Add a small splash of broth or water to keep the chicken juicy. If you’re short on time, microwave it in 30-second intervals, but avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
MAKE AHEAD – Prepare the chicken by seasoning and searing it ahead of time. Store the cooked chicken in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Add the mozzarella and finish baking just before serving to keep the dish fresh and flavorful.
More Easy and Delicious Chicken Dinner Recipes
Serving Suggestions
MASHED POTATOES – Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes pair beautifully with the chicken and balance the vibrant flavors of the balsamic glaze. For an extra touch, try mixing in a bit of garlic or Parmesan.
BEET AND FETA SALAD – A fresh and colorful salad with earthy beets, tangy feta, and a light vinaigrette is the perfect contrast to the rich flavors of this dish. It adds brightness and a pop of color to your table.
GREEN BEANS – Simple sautéed green beans bring a crisp, fresh element to the meal. Toss them with a little garlic or lemon for added flavor.
HERB RISOTTO – Creamy risotto made with fresh herbs complements the chicken beautifully. It adds a comforting, satisfying base that works well with the mozzarella and tomatoes.
OATMEAL DINNER ROLLS – Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for soaking up every last drop of the balsamic glaze. They add a warm, hearty side to round out the meal.
Recipe Success Tips
FRESH INGREDIENTS – Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes are essential to the vibrant flavor of this dish. Pre-shredded cheese or dried basil won’t provide the same richness or freshness. Ripe tomatoes and aromatic basil truly bring out the best in every bite.
SEAR THE CHICKEN – Searing the chicken gives it a golden crust that locks in flavor and juices. Use medium-high heat and let the chicken sit undisturbed while it sears to achieve the best results. This step adds depth and sets the foundation for the entire dish.
DON’T OVERCOOK – Perfectly cooked chicken is tender and juicy, so it’s important to use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165º Fahrenheit to ensure the chicken is cooked through without drying out. This small step can make a big difference.
REST – Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking is crucial. This simple step redistributes the juices, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful. Skipping this can lead to dry chicken, so be sure to give it a little time before serving.
TOPPINGS – Wait until just before serving to add the tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze. This keeps the toppings fresh and their flavors vibrant. Adding them too early can dull the brightness of the basil and the texture of the tomatoes, so timing is key.
Commonly Asked Questions
What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
Use balsamic vinegar and reduce it with a bit of sugar over low heat until thickened.
Can I cook this without an oven-safe skillet?
Yes! Sear the chicken in a regular skillet, then transfer it to a baking dish to finish in the oven.
What’s the best way to ensure the chicken stays moist?
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
More Easy and Delicious Chicken Recipes
Chicken Caprese
Ingredients
- 4 large chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces mozzarella fresh, sliced
- 1 cup grape tomatoes halved
- ¼ cup basil leaves fresh
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375° Fahrenheit.
- Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Top each chicken breast with mozzarella slices.
- Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Top with fresh halved tomatoes, drizzle with balsamic glaze, then add fresh basil leaves.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Disclaimer
Cheerful Cook team members are not trained nutritionists or medical professionals. Calorie information and nutritional values are estimates. If you have nutritional concerns, we recommend using a nutritional calculator.
Maike Corbett is the founder and food blogger of Cheerful Cook, a popular recipe website featuring comfort food recipes from the US and Germany. She has been featured in numerous media outlets, including the AP Wire and MSN.