This Easy Baked Caprese Chicken is a tasty dinner made with juicy chicken breasts, fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s colorful and looks fancy, but it’s super simple!
Honestly, this dish makes me feel like a chef! Just pop everything in the oven, and dinner is ready. I love serving it with some crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, use chicken thighs instead.
Tomatoes: Fresh ripe tomatoes are essential for flavor. If they’re out of season, you can use canned diced tomatoes. Just drain them to avoid excess liquid.
Fresh Mozzarella: This cheese melts beautifully, giving you that creamy texture. If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, feel free to substitute with shredded mozzarella or even a lactose-free cheese if you’re sensitive to dairy.
Balsamic Vinegar: A drizzle brings a great tangy flavor. If you’d like a milder taste, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar instead.
Fresh Basil: The fragrant herb is key to this dish. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil can work in a pinch. Just remember, dried herbs are stronger, so use less.
How Do You Get the Chicken Juicy and Cooked Just Right?
Getting juicy chicken is all about avoiding overcooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheating your oven is crucial for even cooking, keep it at 400°F (200°C).
- Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) when done.
- Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking helps retain moisture. Cover it lightly with foil while resting.
Following these tips will let your chicken remain tender and flavorful in this baked dish!
Easy Baked Caprese Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2-3 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, plus extra for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish requires about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20-25 minutes of cooking time, for a total of about 35 minutes. You’ll have a delicious meal on the table quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to ensure the chicken doesn’t stick.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. This will add great flavor to your dish!
3. Arrange the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. It’s important not to overcrowd them so they’ll cook evenly.
4. Add Tomato and Cheese:
Top each chicken breast with a few slices of fresh tomato. Then, add a slice or two of fresh mozzarella cheese on top of the tomatoes. Looking good already!
5. Scatter Cherry Tomatoes:
Now, sprinkle the cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the baking dish. These will roast nicely and add even more flavors!
6. Drizzle and Bake:
Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the chicken and tomatoes evenly. This will help keep everything moist while baking. Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness: the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and the cheese should be bubbly and slightly golden.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle fresh basil over the top for that lovely aroma and flavor. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
8. Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Baked Caprese Chicken with your favorite sides like pasta, salad, or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. Enjoy your meal!
This recipe yields juicy baked chicken with melted mozzarella on top, fresh tomato flavor, and a touch of sweetness from balsamic vinegar, perfectly complemented by aromatic basil—classic Caprese flavors baked into a simple, wholesome meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to place it in the refrigerator overnight or submerge it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for a few hours. This ensures even cooking!
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Mozzarella?
If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, you can use shredded mozzarella as a substitute. While it won’t have the same creamy texture, it will still melt beautifully and taste great! You could also consider using provolone or a lactose-free cheese for a dairy-free option.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken with seasonings and toppings earlier in the day, then cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just increase baking time slightly if it goes into the oven cold.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven or microwave until warmed through. If using the oven, cover with foil to keep it moist. Enjoy it over salad or in a wrap!
