This Easy Baked Caprese Chicken is a tasty meal that combines juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. It’s all baked together for a warm and delicious dish!
I love how colorful and fresh it looks on my plate! Plus, it’s so simple—just pop it in the oven and let it do the work while I relax. A win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish as they cook quickly. If you need a substitute, try boneless thighs for a juicier option!
Italian Seasoning: This blend gives a lovely flavor. If you don’t have it, mix equal parts of dried basil, oregano, and thyme instead. Or even use fresh herbs for a brighter taste!
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes really shine in this recipe. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can work in a pinch. Just drain them before using!
Fresh Mozzarella: While fresh mozzarella is perfect for melting, you could swap in sliced provolone or even shredded mozzarella if necessary.
Basil: Fresh basil gives it a delightful touch. If you can’t get fresh, dried basil can be used, but add it earlier in the cooking process to enhance the flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken well is key to a delicious meal. Here’s how to ensure it’s perfectly done:
- Check the internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Resting: Let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes before cutting. This keeps it juicy!
- Observing: Look for clear juices running from the chicken when you cut into it. Pink means it needs more cooking!
Following these steps will help make sure your chicken is always tender and delicious! Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Easy Baked Caprese Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, totaling about 35-40 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Next, place the chicken breasts in the baking dish. Drizzle olive oil over both sides of each chicken breast and rub it in to coat them well.
3. Season the Chicken:
Now, season your chicken! Sprinkle salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and dried oregano evenly over the chicken breasts. This blend of flavors will make the chicken so tasty!
4. Add the Tomatoes:
Layer on those fresh ingredients! Place sliced tomatoes evenly on top of each chicken breast. These add juiciness and flavor!
5. Cheese It Up:
Next, add a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese on top of those tomatoes. This will create a delicious creamy layer as it melts.
6. Scatter Cherry Tomatoes:
Now, scatter the cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the baking dish. They will roast beautifully and add extra flavor to the dish.
7. Optional Balsamic Touch:
If you want a little extra tang, drizzle balsamic vinegar around the chicken and tomatoes. This step is totally optional but adds a wonderful flavor!
8. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let your gorgeous dish cool for a minute. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, which not only look pretty but taste amazing too!
10. Enjoy:
Serve the baked Caprese chicken hot! Spoon some of the delicious pan juices and roasted cherry tomatoes over each chicken breast for an extra flavor boost. Enjoy your delightful meal!
This recipe not only looks stunning but is also a perfect combination of fresh flavors and comforting ingredients. Your dinner guests will be impressed! Enjoy!
FAQ: Easy Baked Caprese Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful result. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to reach 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Mozzarella?
If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, you can use shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese as a substitute. While the texture may differ slightly, the dish will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, ensuring it’s heated evenly through.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and layer the ingredients in the baking dish a few hours in advance. Cover it and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold from the fridge!
