When it comes to adding fresh flavors to our favorite recipes, one classic ingredient always shines: caprese! Whether we’re crowning asparagus, layering it in lasagna, or tossing it into a crisp salad, caprese brings a burst of freshness we love. But when we crave a classic summer dish, nothing beats this caprese chicken. It’s a one-pan wonder that reinvents the salad with cheesy chicken, balsamic tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a summertime essential. Here’s what you need to know:
What’s Caprese?
Caprese salad is a simple Italian delight made with sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, seasoned with salt and a drizzle of olive oil. Some like to add pesto or balsamic vinegar, but those are extras, not the heart of a true caprese. Like many Italian dishes, simplicity is key, so aim for the best tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil you can find.
Variations:
- Change up the balsamic vinegar. If you’re not keen on balsamic, skip it! Instead, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pan with garlic and tomatoes. Taste the tomatoes after they soften; they might need a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty kick. Your dish won’t have the same glaze, but it’ll still be tasty!
- Get creative with add-ins! Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes can level up this dish alongside your cherry tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions for Caprese Chicken:
Pair this flavorful chicken with veggies and starches like smashed broccoli, grilled green beans, garlic mashed potatoes, or crusty bread (perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce!). Feeling like a salad? Try our kale Cobb salad or sheet-pan panzanella to add more greens to your plate.
Storage:
Got leftovers? Pop them in an airtight container in the fridge; they’ll keep for about 4 days.
Caprese Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pint grape tomatoes halved
- 2 tablespoons torn basil leaves
- 4 slices mozzarella
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden and cooked through, about 6 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
- Add balsamic vinegar to the skillet, then add garlic and cook until fragrant, around 1 minute. Add tomatoes, season with salt, and let simmer until soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in basil.
- Return chicken to the skillet, nestle in the tomatoes, and top with mozzarella. Cover with a lid to melt the cheese.
- Spoon tomatoes over the chicken and serve hot. Enjoy your flavorful caprese chicken!