Chicken Caprese is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil, and a sweet balsamic glaze. This Italian-inspired recipe is both elegant and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its harmonious blend of ingredients, Chicken Caprese is sure to impress your taste buds and dinner guests alike.

Why Make Chicken Caprese

Chicken Caprese offers a delicious twist on traditional chicken dishes, infusing them with the classic flavors of the Caprese salad. The juicy grape tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and aromatic basil complement the succulent chicken breasts perfectly, creating a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. Plus, the homemade balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and complexity to elevate the dish to gourmet status.

How to Make Chicken Caprese

Prepare Balsamic Glaze: In a saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until reduced by half, about 10 minutes, until it coats the back of a spoon.
Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Brown Chicken: In a large ovenproof skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown chicken breasts on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Cover with foil and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Add Toppings: Remove the skillet from the oven and top the chicken evenly with shredded mozzarella cheese. Scatter grape tomato halves over the cheese.
Melt Cheese: Return the skillet to the oven, uncovered, and bake until the cheese is melted, about 5 minutes. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes to brown the cheese slightly.
Finish and Serve: Sprinkle basil ribbons over the chicken and drizzle with the prepared balsamic glaze. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Caprese with your favorite side dishes such as garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. Pair it with a glass of chilled white wine for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage Info

Any leftover Chicken Caprese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving, being careful not to overcook the chicken.

Some Techniques or Tips

To ensure even cooking, use chicken breasts that are of similar size and thickness.
If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for added juiciness and flavor.
Customize the dish by adding sliced fresh mozzarella or cherry tomatoes on the vine for extra visual appeal.

Variation

For a lighter version of Chicken Caprese, you can grill the chicken breasts instead of pan-searing them. Simply grill over medium-high heat until cooked through, then top with the cheese and tomatoes before melting the cheese under the broiler.

FAQs about Chicken Caprese

Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze instead of making my own? Yes, you can use store-bought balsamic glaze to save time. Simply drizzle it over the chicken before serving.
Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Chicken Caprese by substituting the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu slices. Follow the same steps for assembling and baking the dish.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil? While fresh basil provides the best flavor and aroma, you can use dried basil as a substitute. However, use it sparingly as dried herbs are more potent than fresh ones.

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