The Baked Caprese Chicken is a delightful fusion of classic Italian flavors and the wholesome goodness of baked chicken. Inspired by the traditional Caprese salad, this dish combines fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil with tender chicken breasts. This Mediterranean Caprese Chicken is perfect for a healthy dinner or a crowd-pleasing main course. In this article, we’ll explore a simple baked Caprese chicken recipe, along with variations, tips, and nutritional information.
Ingredients
To create this delicious baked Caprese chicken with pesto, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Fresh Mozzarella: 8 ounces, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- Cherry Tomatoes: 2 cups, halved
- Fresh Basil Leaves: 1 cup, chopped
- Pesto Sauce: ¼ cup
- Balsamic Glaze: 2 tablespoons
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
Optional Variations:
- Baked Caprese Chicken Thighs: Use 4 boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- Healthy Chicken Caprese Bake: Substitute olive oil with avocado oil and use reduced-fat mozzarella.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Marinate with Pesto: Brush each chicken breast with pesto sauce, ensuring an even coating.
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Searing the Chicken
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
Step 2: Adding the Caprese Ingredients
- Add Mozzarella and Tomatoes: Place mozzarella slices on top of each chicken breast, followed by cherry tomato halves.
- Sprinkle Basil Leaves: Distribute chopped basil evenly over the chicken.
Step 3: Baking
- Transfer to Oven: Move the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
- Drizzle Balsamic Glaze: Remove the skillet from the oven and drizzle balsamic glaze over the baked Caprese chicken.
- Garnish and Serve: Let it rest for a few minutes before serving with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to complement this baked chicken with mozzarella and tomato.
Tips and Variations
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure Juicy Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy chicken.
- Preventing Dryness: Baste the chicken occasionally with the pan juices during baking to keep it moist.
Recipe Variations:
- Baked Caprese Chicken with Pesto: Add a dollop of extra pesto on top before serving for a more intense flavor.
- Mediterranean Caprese Chicken: Incorporate sliced black olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
- Cheesy Variation: Add grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella for an extra cheesy crust.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the basic nutritional information for one serving of this baked Caprese chicken cherry tomatoes (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
Health Benefits:
- Rich in Protein: High protein content from chicken helps in muscle growth and repair.
- Low in Carbs: Ideal for low-carb and ketogenic diets.
- Nutrient-Dense: Tomatoes and basil add essential vitamins and antioxidants.
The baked Caprese chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Whether you’re looking for a simple baked Caprese chicken recipe for a weekday dinner or an impressive dish for a special occasion, this recipe offers the perfect blend of taste and nutrition. Try this healthy chicken Caprese bake and enjoy the delightful combination of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
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