Caprese Chicken: The Ultimate Weeknight Dinner
A cheesy, balsamic-kissed meal that elevates simple ingredients in under half an hour.
Bring the magic of a classic Caprese salad to your table with this fast and simple Caprese chicken recipe. Juicy chicken cutlets, luscious melted mozzarella, fresh basil, and the bright zing of balsamic come together for a meal that’s as irresistible as it is effortless. Whether you’re seeking a weekend treat or a quick solution for busy weeknights, this recipe keeps things delicious and healthy—all in under 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 30 minutes: Perfect for busy schedules.
- Classic Italian flavors: Tomato, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic build a robust, irresistible profile.
- Versatile serving options: Great with pasta, salad, or crusty bread.
- Healthy and satisfying: High in protein, fresh ingredients, and low in heavy sauces.
All About Caprese Chicken
The Caprese salad—insalata Caprese—is an Italian classic consisting of tomatoes, soft mozzarella, fresh basil, olive oil, and often a splash of balsamic. The flavors are pure, vibrant, and summery, but their appeal spans all seasons. Caprese chicken transforms these beloved salad elements into a warm, cheesy main, placing tender seared chicken front and center.
What Makes This Version Unique?
- Marinated cherry tomatoes add a burst of flavor, marrying sweet and tangy notes.
- Jarred pesto delivers rich, herbal complexity with zero fuss.
- Balsamic reduction finishes the dish with a gourmet touch.
Key Ingredients
For Marinated Tomatoes
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons prepared pesto
- 1 tablespoon balsamic reduction (plus more for serving)
- Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper
For the Chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 6 chicken cutlets
- Kosher salt & pepper
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus more for garnish)
Which Pan Should You Use?
A cast-iron skillet or any oven-safe sauté pan is perfect, allowing you to sear the chicken on the stovetop and then broil it with cheese for a golden finish. If you don’t have an oven-proof pan, use a standard skillet for stovetop cooking and transfer everything to a baking dish before the final broil.
What Kind of Tomatoes Are Best?
Cherry tomatoes are recommended for their sweetness and year-round availability, but any ripe tomato works beautifully. If using larger tomatoes, chop them into bite-size chunks. In summer, peak-season heirlooms elevate the dish.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Marinate the Tomatoes: In a medium bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, olive oil, pesto, balsamic reduction, and a generous pinch each of salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat and set aside. The longer the tomatoes marinate, the deeper the flavor.
Prepare and Sear the Chicken: Season chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken (in batches if needed) and sear on each side until golden-brown and almost cooked through, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Remove chicken to a plate while you deglaze the pan.
Sauté the Tomatoes: Add the marinated tomatoes (and their juices) to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes, scraping any browned bits from the pan, until they just begin to soften and release juices.
Layer Chicken and Cheese: Return chicken cutlets to the skillet. Spoon the tomato mixture over them. Top each cutlet with a generous slice of mozzarella.
Broil and Garnish: Preheat the broiler. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 2–3 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and starting to brown.
Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven. Sprinkle with fresh basil and drizzle with extra balsamic reduction if desired. Serve immediately.
What others are reading
Chef’s Tips for Success
- For extra juicy chicken, don’t overcook the cutlets; they finish cooking under the broiler.
- If your skillet isn’t broiler-safe, quickly transfer everything to a baking dish before broiling the cheese.
- Balsamic reduction can be found near vinegars in most grocery stores.
- Let the tomatoes marinate while you prep everything else; 15–30 minutes brings out the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Over fresh pasta (such as angel hair or spaghetti) or with orzo for a more substantial meal.
- With crusty bread (like ciabatta or focaccia) to soak up the juicy tomato-basil sauce.
- Alongside a green salad or arugula tossed with lemon, olive oil, Parmigiano, salt, and pepper for a bright, peppery contrast.
- Paired with simple roasted vegetables or olive oil potatoes for a hearty dinner.
Variations & Add-Ons
- Add balsamic-glazed roasted vegetables (like zucchini or eggplant) for extra depth.
- Swap mozzarella for burrata for an ultra-creamy finish.
- Add a handful of baby spinach with the tomatoes for bonus greens.
- Try sun-dried tomatoes in winter for a concentrated burst of flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
| Nutrient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast | High in lean protein, supports muscle and immune health |
| Tomatoes | Rich in lycopene, vitamin C, and potassium; antioxidant properties |
| Basil | Contains vitamin K, antioxidants, and essential oils |
| Olive oil | Source of healthy fats and vitamin E |
| Mozzarella | Provides calcium and protein, while keeping the dish crave-worthy |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use whole chicken breasts instead of cutlets?
A: Yes, but slice chicken breasts horizontally into thinner cutlets or pound them to an even thickness for even cooking and tenderness.
Q: Is homemade or store-bought pesto preferred?
A: Either works well—store-bought saves time, while homemade fresh basil pesto offers extra fragrance and flavor.
Q: Can this dish be made ahead?
A: You can prep and marinate the tomatoes ahead, but the chicken is best cooked just before eating to maintain its juicy texture. Leftovers reheat well for up to two days.
Q: What is balsamic reduction and where do I find it?
A: Balsamic reduction is simply balsamic vinegar simmered until syrupy. It is sold ready-made near vinegars in most grocery stores; you can make your own by boiling balsamic vinegar until thickened.
Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Skip the mozzarella or use a favorite dairy-free cheese alternative. The dish still benefits from the tomato, basil, and balsamic combination.
Expert Tips and Substitution Ideas
- Use heirloom tomatoes in summer for richer taste and variety.
- Swap basil for arugula if basil is unavailable; the peppery green pairs well.
- Try smoked mozzarella or add a sprinkle of Parmigiano-Reggiano for a twist.
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until just warmed through, adding a splash of water to keep the chicken moist.
Shortcuts for Busy Nights
- Buy pre-sliced chicken cutlets to save prep time.
- Use store-bought pesto and balsamic glaze to speed up assembly while maintaining flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
- Wine: Crisp pinot grigio or a light chianti balances the tomatoes and cheese.
- Dessert: End with a lemon sorbet or fresh berries for a light, Italian-inspired finish.
Final Thoughts
Caprese chicken takes just a handful of ingredients and less than half an hour to become a centerpiece-worthy meal. Whether served alongside pasta, a salad, or simply good bread, this dish captures all the brightness and comfort of Italian cooking. Try it once and it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a32557103/caprese-chicken-pasta-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a65654835/sheet-pan-caprese-chicken-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a61855912/caprese-chicken-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a98862/chicken-caprese-salad/
- https://www.aol.com/ree-drummonds-sheet-pan-caprese-130000283.html
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