Description
This Caprese Chicken recipe combines juicy, seasoned chicken breasts with a rich balsamic tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil for a delicious Italian-inspired meal that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (about 1 pound total)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce and Toppings
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 ½ tablespoons brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons fresh basil, torn and divided
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella
Instructions
- Preheat Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Add Olive Oil: Pour the extra-virgin olive oil into the hot skillet to coat the bottom and prevent sticking.
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken breasts evenly with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Cook Chicken: Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, until the outside is golden and the chicken is cooked through.
- Set Chicken Aside: Transfer the cooked chicken breasts to a plate and set aside temporarily.
- Reduce Heat: Lower the skillet’s heat to medium-low as you prepare the sauce.
- Make Balsamic Sauce: Add balsamic vinegar and brown sugar to the skillet, stirring to combine and dissolve the sugar.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes: Add the halved grape tomatoes to the skillet, season with a pinch of salt, and let them simmer until soft, about 6-7 minutes.
- Add Basil: Stir in half of the torn fresh basil leaves into the tomato sauce for a fresh herbal note.
- Return Chicken: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet atop the sauce.
- Add Mozzarella: Top each chicken breast with a slice of fresh mozzarella and cover the skillet to allow the cheese to melt.
- Serve: Spoon the tomato sauce over the chicken and sprinkle the remaining fresh basil on top before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella for the best melty texture and flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference.
- If balsamic vinegar is too strong, you can dilute it slightly with water or substitute with a balsamic glaze for a sweeter option.
- For extra color and aroma, garnish with additional fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
- This dish pairs well with a side of crusty bread, pasta, or a simple green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
