ย ย Elevate your dinner routine with the vibrant and flavorful Baked Caprese Chicken. This dish combines the classic Italian Caprese salad ingredientsโmozzarella, tomatoes, and basilโwith succulent baked chicken. Perfect for a cozy night in, it offers a burst of Mediterranean flavors with minimal effort. Whether youโre a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises a delightful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
โข 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
โข Salt and pepper to taste
โข 1 tablespoon olive oil
โข 1 teaspoon garlic powder
โข 1 teaspoon dried oregano
โข 1 teaspoon dried basil
โข 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
โข 2 large tomatoes, sliced
โข Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
โข Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Directions
1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC) to ensure itโs hot and ready for baking.
2. Season Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil. This seasoning will infuse the chicken with flavor.
3. Sear Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until they are golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step helps to lock in the juices and add a rich flavor to the chicken.
4. Add Toppings: Once the chicken is seared, place a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese on each chicken breast. Arrange tomato slices on top of the cheese. The tomatoes will add a juicy, tangy contrast to the rich mozzarella.
5. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken until it is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 15-20 minutes. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ยฐF (74ยฐC) for safe consumption.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Serve hot and enjoy the burst of Italian flavors.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
โข Calories per Serving: 310 kcal
โข Servings: 4
Tips
โข For Extra Flavor: Try marinating the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
โข Cheese Options: While fresh mozzarella is recommended, you can substitute with provolone or another melting cheese if preferred.
โข Veggie Addition: Add a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the dish and increase the mealโs nutritional value.
Benefits
โข Balanced Meal: This dish provides a good balance of protein from the chicken and calcium from the mozzarella, along with the antioxidant benefits of tomatoes and basil.
โข Low-Carb Option: Baked Caprese Chicken is a low-carb meal, making it suitable for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
โข Gluten-Free: The recipe is naturally gluten-free, catering to those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
FAQs
โข Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs can be used as an alternative. Adjust cooking time as thighs may require slightly longer to cook through.
โข Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken with the toppings and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just ensure itโs cooked thoroughly before serving.
โข What can I use instead of balsamic glaze? If you donโt have balsamic glaze, a balsamic reduction or even a splash of balsamic vinegar can be used for a similar tangy finish.
Conclusion
Baked Caprese Chicken is a simple yet elegant dish that brings the flavors of Italy to your table with ease. With its delicious combination of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, itโs perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special family meal. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the harmony of tastes and the joy of a homemade, wholesome meal.
