THE BEST Caprese Chicken Recipe
User Reviews
4.7
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
232 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Italian
THE BEST Caprese Chicken Recipe
Description
This Caprese Chicken recipe begins by slicing chicken breasts lengthwise, seasoning them with kosher salt and black pepper before pan-searing in olive oil and butter until golden brown. After searing, each piece is topped with a generous layer of basil pesto, followed by slices of fresh mozzarella and cocktail tomatoes. The skillet is then transferred to a preheated 400°F oven to finish cooking, melting the cheese and allowing the flavors to meld.
The dish balances savory chicken with the herbaceous notes of basil pesto and the milky richness of mozzarella. The tomatoes add a fresh, juicy contrast, while a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds sweet-acidic complexity. Topping with slivered fresh basil completes the presentation and flavor dimension.
This Caprese Chicken pairs well with a simple salad, pasta, or steamed vegetables and makes a satisfying meal option that highlights the colors and tastes of a classic Caprese salad in a warm, cooked dish.
Leftover chicken can be stored refrigerated for up to five days, though note that basil will oxidize and wilt over time, affecting appearance and texture.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breast skinless and boneless
- salt Kosher salt and freshly ground
- black pepper Kosher salt and freshly ground
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 oz. basil pesto jar DeLallo Traditional Simply
- 4-6 lices mozzarella cheese fresh or 6 ounces grated
- 8 tomato sliced, cocktail or small
- balsamic glaze brand DeLallo
- basil slivered, fresh
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400° F.
- Use a thin, sharp knife to slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise. Season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat with the olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted into the olive oil, add the chicken breasts to the pan, being careful not to crowd. Cook on each side until lightly browned and easily released from the pan, about 3-4 minutes each.
- Slather the tops of each chicken breast with the basil pesto, about 1-2 tablespoons per chicken breast. Top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella and a few slices of tomato.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Notes
- Store leftover chicken in the refrigerator for up to five days; expect basil to wilt and darken during storage.
- Use fresh mozzarella for better melting and authentic texture, but grated mozzarella is a suitable substitute.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan during searing to allow even browning.
- Balsamic glaze adds a touch of acidity and sweetness; adjust quantity to taste when drizzling before serving.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 232 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 232kcal | 12% |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | 2% |
| Protein | 18g | 36% |
| Fat | 15g | 23% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Cholesterol | 84mg | 28% |
| Sodium | 262mg | 11% |
| Potassium | 454mg | 10% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 1325IU | 27% |
| Vitamin C | 17mg | 19% |
| Calcium | 161mg | 16% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.7
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