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 for this one. It will elevate your weeknight dinner game with a dish that looks like you spent all day working on it, yet is...
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Trim chicken of any fat and sprinkle with salt and pepper on both sides.
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.
Remove chicken from the bag and discard the marinade.
Heat avocado oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet.
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.
Add balsamic vinegar to a small saucepan over medium heat.
Cook, stirring consistently, until vinegar is reduced by about 1/4 and starts to thicken. Remove from heat.
Add garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about a minute.
Add cherry tomatoes and stir until slightly blistered and juicy.
Move the chicken back to the skillet and place enough mozzarella cheese to cover each chicken breast.
Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt, which should take a couple of minutes.
Top each chicken breast with blistered tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.
Drizzle with reduced balsamic vinegar and serve immediately.
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.
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.
A Southern Belle Who's Thinking About What's For Dinner While Eating Lunch
