Chicken Caprese is a recipe that is as easy as it is delicious – pan-seared marinated chicken breasts topped with velvety mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and tomatoes, and drizzled with balsamic reduction. Even though it is easily 100° outside, you’ll be glad you spent a few minutes at the stove...
Ingredients
Chicken
olive oil, extra virgin1/2cup
balsamic vinegar1/4cup
honey1tbsp
boneless, skinless chicken breasts4lb
sea salt1tsp
ground black pepper1tsp
avocado oil, or other neutral oil1tbsp
garlic, minced2clove
cherry tomatoes, halved2cups
fresh mozzarella, sliced8oz
fresh basil leaves1bundle
Balsamic Glaze
- balsamic vinegar1/4cup
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
660.0kcal (33%)
Protein
92.0g (100%)
Carbs
15.0g (5.45%)
Sugars
12.5g (25%)
Healthy Fat
25.1g
Unhealthy Fat
7.5g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Chicken Caprese
Prepping Your Poultry
- Step 1
Trim chicken of any fat and sprinkle with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Step 2
Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey in a large zip lock bag. Add chicken and marinate for at least two hours, up to overnight.
- Step 3
Remove chicken from the bag and discard the marinade.
Searing the Chicken
- Step 1
Heat avocado oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet.
- Step 2
Add chicken and sear on both sides for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and cover. Do not empty the pan; leave the juices.
Making the Balsamic Glaze
- Step 1
Add balsamic vinegar to a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Step 2
Cook, stirring consistently, until vinegar is reduced by about 1/4 and starts to thicken. Remove from heat.
Cooking Garlic and Tomatoes
- Step 1
Add garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about a minute.
- Step 2
Add cherry tomatoes and stir until slightly blistered and juicy.
Melting the Mozzarella
- Step 1
Move the chicken back to the skillet and place enough mozzarella cheese to cover each chicken breast.
- Step 2
Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt, which should take a couple of minutes.
Finishing Touches
- Step 1
Top each chicken breast with blistered tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.
- Step 2
Drizzle with reduced balsamic vinegar and serve immediately.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
660.0kcal (33%)
Protein
92.0g (100%)
Carbs
15.0g (5.45%)
Sugars
12.5g (25%)
Healthy Fat
25.1g
Unhealthy Fat
7.5g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Marinate your chicken breasts for at least a couple of hours to enhance flavor and tenderness.
Grill or smoke the chicken instead of pan-searing for a smoky flavor.
For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for portobello mushrooms or tofu.
Experiment with additional herbs like oregano or thyme for extra flavor.
FAQS
Can I use shredded mozzarella?
No, shredded mozzarella or block mozzarella won't provide the authentic Caprese flavor. Use fresh mozzarella that is soft and creamy.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least two hours, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes, grape tomatoes work well as a substitute for cherry tomatoes.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with portobello mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version.
What can I serve with Chicken Caprese?
Pair it with a wedge salad, bacon-wrapped asparagus, mashed cauliflower, or sesame ginger broccoli for a complete meal.
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Shea Goldstein
(@dixiechikcooks)
A Southern Belle Who's Thinking About What's For Dinner While Eating Lunch A Southern Belle Who's Thinking About What's For Dinner While Eating Lunch...
Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia