Get ready to fall in love with Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast—a dish that brings together everything you adore about classic Caprese salad and delivers it in a juicy, flavor-packed chicken dinner. Imagine tender chicken, creamy fresh mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, fragrant basil, and the unmatched tang of balsamic glaze all mingling in one forkful. It’s not only a showstopper you can whip up on a busy weeknight, but also elegant enough for a dinner party. If you’re craving a meal that’s both vibrant and comforting, this is the one you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast proves you don’t need a laundry list of ingredients to create something truly spectacular. Each ingredient brings unique flavor and character to the plate—simple, yes, but with every element working magic on the palate. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless breasts as the perfect canvas for stuffing and stay juicy after baking.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs infuses the chicken with classic Italian flair and tons of aroma.
- Salt: Don’t skip this! Enhances all the fresh flavors and balances the dish.
- Black pepper: Adds the right touch of mellow heat and sharpness.
- Olive oil: Creates a beautiful golden crust when searing and keeps everything moist.
- Fresh mozzarella: Melts to gooey perfection inside the chicken for creamy, indulgent bites.
- Cherry tomatoes: Bring a burst of tangy sweetness and keep every mouthful vibrant and juicy.
- Fresh basil leaves: Lend unmatched aroma and that signature Caprese flavor you love.
- Balsamic glaze: Ties it all together with rich, syrupy tang—you’ll want to slather it on everything!
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine: Hold everything together while the chicken cooks, so all that goodness stays inside.
How to Make Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it preheats, take each chicken breast and, using a sharp knife, carefully slice a deep pocket horizontally along one side. Don’t cut all the way through—you want a pocket ready to be filled with deliciousness. This step makes room for the melty mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil that truly make this Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast sing.
Step 2: Season Inside and Out
Now, season both the outside and inside of the pockets with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Be generous—this is your chance to pack flavor into every bite. Massaging the seasonings into the chicken ensures it’s tasty from the inside out.
Step 3: Stuff with Caprese Goodness
Layer slices of mozzarella, fresh basil leaves, and a handful of cherry tomato halves inside each pocket. Then, drizzle a little balsamic glaze right into the pocket for that signature sweet tang. Secure the open edge with toothpicks or kitchen twine so nothing escapes during cooking.
Step 4: Sear for Flavor
Add olive oil to a large oven-safe skillet and set it over medium heat. Once hot, place the stuffed chicken breasts in the pan and sear them for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until they’re beautifully golden. Searing locks in the juices and sets the stage for irresistible flavor and texture in your Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your skillet straight into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and registers 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. The mozzarella will be gooey, the tomatoes softened, and your kitchen flooded with the scent of Italy.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove the toothpicks or twine (this is important!) before plating. Give each Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkling of fresh basil. Get ready for applause at the table!
How to Serve Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Garnishes
The finishing touches make all the difference! A handful of sliced fresh basil over the top adds color, aroma, and that unmistakable Caprese freshness. For even more wow factor, drizzle extra balsamic glaze just before serving—the gloss and tang elevate every bite.
Side Dishes
Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast pairs beautifully with so many sides. Try a simple green salad tossed in vinaigrette, roasted veggies for a hearty touch, or fluffy garlic butter pasta to soak up any delicious pan juices. The flavors are so versatile, you’ll never run out of pairing options.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra-special presentation, slice each stuffed chicken breast on a diagonal to reveal those gorgeous, colorful layers inside. Arrange on a platter with whole cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and a final swirl of balsamic glaze—perfect for both family dinners and entertaining friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast keeps wonderfully in the fridge! Store any extra portions in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the chicken cool to room temperature first so your fridge stays condensation-free and your chicken keeps its best texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken for future meals. Just wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or pop them into freezer bags. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through—usually about 15 minutes. This helps the cheese get melty again without drying out the chicken. Add a fresh drizzle of balsamic glaze and new basil after reheating to freshen things up.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! While chicken breasts are classic for Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast, boneless, skinless thighs can be substituted for a juicier texture. Make sure to pound them evenly for easy stuffing and adjust cooking times as needed since thighs may cook a bit faster.
What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
If balsamic glaze isn’t handy, make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until thick and syrupy—it’s worth the few extra minutes. Otherwise, a splash of good balsamic vinegar over the chicken will still add great flavor.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! You can stuff and secure the chicken a few hours ahead, then keep it covered in the fridge. Sear and bake just before serving for the freshest result. It’s perfect for prepping before guests arrive!
How can I make this dairy free?
If you’re avoiding dairy, try substituting a creamy dairy-free mozzarella or simply stuff with seasoned tomatoes and basil. The Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast will still be bursting with flavor and color.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check your balsamic glaze and seasoning blends to ensure there are no sneaky gluten ingredients.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a chicken dinner that’s bright, fresh, and absolutely unforgettable, Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast should be at the top of your to-cook list. Invite some Italian charm into your kitchen and treat yourself to this vibrant, flavor-packed meal—you’ll be amazed at how simple and delicious homemade can be!
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Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is a delicious twist on traditional chicken. Tender chicken breasts are filled with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil, then baked to perfection. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess to this flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Stuffing:
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella (sliced)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (plus more for drizzling)
- toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Chicken: Cut a pocket into each chicken breast. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff Chicken: Fill each breast with mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and secure with toothpicks.
- Cook: Sear chicken in a skillet, then bake for 15-20 minutes.
- Serve: Remove toothpicks, drizzle with more balsamic glaze, and garnish with basil.
Notes
- You can substitute sun-dried tomatoes for cherry tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
- Serve with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic butter pasta.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
