Caprese Chicken Recipe

Recipes

Caprese Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 1/2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups shredded whole milk low moisture mozzarella
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, cut into ribbons
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Balsamic Glaze:
    • Combine balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a saucepan.
    • Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
    • Simmer until reduced by half, about 10 minutes. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  2. Cook Chicken:
    • Preheat oven to 350°F.
    • In a large ovenproof skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add chicken breasts and brown each side, about 3-4 minutes per side.
    • Cover with foil and place in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  3. Assemble and Bake:
    • Carefully remove the skillet from the oven.
    • Top the chicken with shredded mozzarella, dividing evenly.
    • Sprinkle halved grape tomatoes over the cheese.
    • Return the skillet to the oven, uncovered, until the cheese melts, about 5 minutes.
    • Turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes to brown the cheese slightly.
  4. Finish and Serve:
    • Top with fresh basil ribbons.
    • Spoon balsamic glaze over the chicken.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes:

  • If desired, cut two large chicken breasts in half lengthwise to reduce portion size and baking time.
  • Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Use fresh garden tomatoes when available; grape tomatoes are a sweet and sun-ripened choice in the off-season.
  • Keep a close eye on the skillet under the broiler as broilers can be unpredictable.
  • Be cautious when removing the skillet from the oven, as the handle will be very hot. Use oven mitts and consider investing in a handle cover to prevent kitchen accidents.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave at 50% power.