Caprese Chicken Skillet

$- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped - 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze - 3 tablespoons olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for garnish When I cook Caprese Chicken Skillet, I love using fresh, high-quality ingredients. The main stars are juicy chicken breasts, bright cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. Each bite bursts with flavor. I choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy cooking. They stay moist and soak up all the tasty juices from the tomatoes and garlic. The cherry tomatoes add a sweet touch. Halving them helps release their juices, creating a nice sauce. Fresh mozzarella balls are essential. They melt beautifully over the chicken. I often use bocconcini, as they are bite-sized and perfect for this dish. Fresh basil gives a lovely aroma and bright flavor. For the extra touch, I use balsamic glaze. It adds sweetness and a tangy finish. Olive oil keeps everything from sticking and helps with browning. Garlic adds a delightful aroma and depth to the dish. Finally, I season with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning brings out the best in all the ingredients. I sometimes add fresh basil leaves as a garnish for a pop of color. This dish is not only easy to make but also a feast for the eyes and palate. Each ingredient plays a part in making the Caprese Chicken Skillet a hit. {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This adds flavor. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You want them browned and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F or 75°C. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the last tablespoon of olive oil. Then, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it smells great. Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want them soft and juicy, releasing their flavors into the pan. Now it's time to bring everything together. Lower the heat and return the chicken to the skillet. Top each chicken breast with fresh mozzarella balls. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. The mozzarella should melt nicely. Once melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the chicken and tomatoes. Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor. Enjoy your meal hot! To ensure your chicken is juicy and tender, start with fresh chicken breasts. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). This keeps the meat moist and safe to eat. Always season the chicken well with salt and pepper before cooking. This adds flavor from the start. For perfectly melted mozzarella, add it at the right time. After you return the chicken to the skillet, cover it with mozzarella and a lid. The lid traps steam and helps the cheese melt evenly. Cook it for just 2-3 minutes. Don’t overcook it, or the cheese will become rubbery. Caprese Chicken Skillet pairs well with simple side dishes. A fresh green salad is a great choice. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the juices. Rice or quinoa adds a nice touch too. Both make the meal heartier. For presentation, serve directly from the skillet. This gives a rustic feel. Drizzle some balsamic glaze over the dish. Adding fresh basil leaves as a garnish makes it look extra special. Bright colors make your meal more inviting. A good skillet is key for this recipe. I recommend a large, heavy skillet. Non-stick or cast iron works best. They heat evenly and help prevent sticking. For meal prep, gather a cutting board, sharp knife, and measuring cups. A meat thermometer is a must for checking doneness. Having these tools ready makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and basil will elevate the flavor of this dish, so opt for the best quality ingredients you can find. Adjust the Balsamic Glaze: If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider adding more balsamic glaze. Alternatively, a splash of lemon juice can add brightness. Check Chicken Temperature: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Serve with a Side: Pair this dish with a light salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices and balance the meal. {{image_2}} You can swap the chicken for other proteins. Turkey works well, too. If you're plant-based, try tofu. Both options taste great with the same flavors. You can also change the vegetables. Instead of cherry tomatoes, use bell peppers or zucchini. They add a nice crunch and color. Want to boost the flavor? Add spices like paprika or Italian herbs. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a nice kick. You can also try different glazes. A honey balsamic or garlic herb sauce creates a new twist. These small changes can make a big difference. Make this meal heartier by adding grains. Cooked quinoa or rice makes it filling. You can also mix in other veggies. Spinach or mushrooms blend well with the dish. These options keep your meal exciting and healthy. To keep your Caprese Chicken Skillet fresh, let it cool down. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors locked in. Store the container in your fridge. You can keep it for up to three days. When you want to enjoy your leftovers, use the stovetop. Heat it gently over low heat. This method keeps the chicken juicy. If you use a microwave, cover it with a damp paper towel. This keeps moisture in and prevents drying. Yes, you can freeze Caprese Chicken Skillet! Pack it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave space for expansion. It stays good in the freezer for up to two months. To defrost, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently to enjoy its full flavor. It takes about 30 minutes to cook Caprese Chicken Skillet. You need 10 minutes to prep. Cooking the chicken takes about 15 minutes. Sautéing the tomatoes and melting the cheese adds another 5 minutes. This one-pan meal is quick and easy. Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook it, then let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it gently on the stove to keep the chicken juicy. This dish pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options: - Garlic bread for a crunchy side. - A fresh green salad for a light touch. - Quinoa or rice to soak up the sauce. These sides complete your meal and add more flavor. This guide covered everything about making Caprese Chicken Skillet. We discussed essential ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips. You learned how to ensure juicy chicken and perfectly melted cheese. The variations let you explore different flavors, while storage tips help keep leftovers fresh. Whether you try swaps or serve it with your favorite sides, this dish is a winner. Enjoy creating this delicious meal in your kitchen!$

Indulge in this mouthwatering Caprese Chicken Skillet, the perfect solution for busy weeknights! This easy chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts topped with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s a flavorful one-pan chicken dinner that takes just 30 minutes to prepare. Try this delicious balsamic glaze chicken tonight and watch your family rave! Save this recipe for quick access! #CapreseChickenSkillet #SkilletChickenDinner #EasyChickenRecipes #OnePanRecipes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

3 tablespoons balsamic glaze

3 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until they start to soften and release their juices.

Lower the heat and return the chicken to the skillet. Top each piece with fresh mozzarella balls and cover with a lid. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mozzarella begins to melt.

Remove the skillet from the heat and drizzle the balsamic glaze over the chicken and tomatoes.

Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil on top and serve hot.

Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Servings: 4

- Optional: For presentation, serve the dish directly from the skillet garnished with extra fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elevated look. Enjoy your delicious Caprese Chicken Skillet!