Name: Baked Caprese Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-486637H31M23S
Total time: PT-486637H31M23S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Chicken breasts; Olive oil; Italian seasoning (or substitute with dried oregano); Salt and pepper; Balsamic vinegar; Cherry tomatoes; Bocconcini (mozzarella balls); Fresh basil

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Baked Caprese Chicken brings together the fresh and vibrant flavors of a Caprese salad with the hearty goodness of chicken. This dish features juicy chicken breasts topped with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil, all drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze. It’s the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and sweet, making it an ideal weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests.

Baked Caprese Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love Caprese salads, then this baked version will quickly become one of your favorites. The chicken absorbs all the rich flavors of the tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil while staying juicy and tender. The balsamic vinegar adds just the right amount of sweetness and tanginess to elevate the dish. It’s easy to make, takes minimal time, and requires only a few simple ingredients, making it the perfect dinner solution. Plus, it’s versatile and can be paired with so many sides for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts
Olive oil
Italian seasoning (or substitute with dried oregano)
Salt and pepper
Balsamic vinegar
Cherry tomatoes
Bocconcini (mozzarella balls)
Fresh basil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the top.
Arrange halved cherry tomatoes and bocconcini mozzarella balls on top of each piece of chicken.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese has melted.
Remove from the oven and top with fresh basil leaves.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Total preparation and cooking time is around 35-40 minutes.

Variations

Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, you can easily swap chicken breasts for thighs. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Add Pesto: For a burst of flavor, try drizzling some pesto on top of the chicken before baking.
Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free mozzarella alternative to make this recipe suitable for those avoiding dairy.
Vegetable Add-ins: You can toss in some sautéed veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Baked Caprese Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: To reheat leftovers, place the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) preheated oven or an air fryer for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

Tip for Juicy Chicken Breast: Don’t skip the resting step. After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender.

Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is your best friend when cooking chicken. For perfect results, ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, frozen chicken breasts can be used, but they must be fully thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking.

2. Can I substitute Italian seasoning with something else?

Yes, if you don’t have Italian seasoning, dried oregano is a perfect substitute.

3. Is there an alternative to bocconcini cheese?

You can substitute bocconcini with regular mozzarella or even a shredded cheese blend if needed.

4. Can I cook the chicken entirely in the oven without searing it first?

Yes, although searing helps develop flavor and texture, you can skip this step and bake the chicken straight away.

5. How can I ensure my chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and toppings ahead of time and bake it just before serving, making it a great dish for meal prepping.

7. What should I serve with Baked Caprese Chicken?

Pair it with roasted vegetables, a side salad, pasta, or even rice for a complete meal.

8. Can I use a different type of vinegar?

While balsamic vinegar adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different twist.

9. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

10. Can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! You can add any vegetables you like, such as roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach, to make the dish heartier and more nutritious.

Conclusion

Baked Caprese Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make meal that delivers all the freshness of a Caprese salad in a hearty, satisfying form. The combination of tender chicken, fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, topped with a sweet balsamic glaze, is a winner every time. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special to serve at a gathering. With minimal ingredients and a short prep time, it’s a recipe everyone will love.