This Easy Caprese Chicken Skillet is a healthy, delicious dinner that combines the juicy goodness of pan-seared chicken with the vibrant flavors of tomatoes, fresh basil, and melted mozzarella. It’s a quick, one-pan recipe that’s perfect for weeknights, offering Italian-inspired comfort without the guilt. Simple, satisfying, and full of nutrients.
Recipe Tips and Tricks:
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even cooking.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken with garlic, olive oil, and Italian herbs before cooking.
- Pat chicken dry before searing to achieve a golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet to allow even browning.
- Use fresh mozzarella and basil for the best flavor profile.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Caprese Chicken Skillet is a dinner game-changer for busy evenings. It combines a balance of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins in a single dish. The tangy sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the richness of melted mozzarella, and the aromatic freshness of basil create a symphony of flavors. Moreover, it’s cooked in one pan, minimizing cleanup while maximizing deliciousness. It’s versatile enough to serve over a bed of quinoa, pasta, or even with crusty bread.
Easy Caprese Chicken Skillet
A healthy, flavorful one-pan Caprese chicken skillet featuring tender chicken, fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a wholesome dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine and Melt: Return the chicken to the skillet. Top each piece with a slice of fresh mozzarella. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.
- Finish with Basil and Glaze: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top before serving.
- Serve: Plate the chicken with the tomato mixture and melted cheese. Enjoy as is or with your favorite side dish.
Notes
- Always use fresh ingredients for the best taste and texture.
- To prevent sticking, preheat the skillet and ensure it’s well-oiled before adding chicken.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 433Total Fat 21gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 138mgSodium 530mgCarbohydrates 10gFiber 1gSugar 7gProtein 48g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes:
- Chicken Breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for faster cooking. Organic or free-range chicken provides superior flavor and quality.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes to balance the dish’s savory elements.
- Fresh Mozzarella: Buffalo mozzarella adds creaminess; slice or tear into pieces for even melting.
- Basil Leaves: Fresh basil is essential for authentic Caprese flavor—don’t substitute with dried basil.
- Balsamic Glaze: A finishing drizzle ties everything together with a sweet and tangy kick.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for the best taste and health benefits.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Protein Swap: Replace chicken with turkey breast or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Cheese Options: Substitute mozzarella with burrata for an even creamier finish.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Serve over zoodles (zucchini noodles) instead of pasta.
- Tomato Substitution: Use grape tomatoes or chopped Roma tomatoes if cherry tomatoes are unavailable.
- Additional Flavor: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a splash of white wine for depth.
Storage Options:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
- Freezing: Avoid freezing as the texture of fresh mozzarella and tomatoes can become watery.
- Meal Prep: Cook the chicken in advance and store it separately from the toppings; assemble just before serving for the freshest taste.
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