THE BEST Caprese Chicken Recipe
THE BEST Caprese Chicken features skinless, boneless chicken breasts pan-seared then topped with basil pesto, fresh mozzarella, and sliced tomatoes. The dish is finished in the oven with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and fresh basil, showcasing the classic Caprese flavor profile in a convenient, protein-forward meal. The combination of melty cheese, bright tomato, and fragrant basil pesto adds freshness and richness to the tender chicken.
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
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 4 Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 232
% 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.