Caprese or Caprese salad is a classic entrée served in Italian cuisine. Made from a modest combination of ingredients, a Caprese consists of fresh tomato, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper. There are several means of enjoying this summery fare, and our easy one-pan Caprese chicken is one of many delicious variations.
There is no doubt that the classic version of the Caprese is a wonderful go-to dish to have in your collection of recipes. But, chicken Caprese is the perfect meal for when you’re craving something heartier, yet still simple. Pan-seared, and placed in the oven for a melty cheesy finish and adorned with fresh Roma tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of sweet, tangy balsamic glaze – this stunningly delicious meal will undoubtedly become a family favorite.
Easy One-Pan Caprese Chicken
Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 8 tablespoons prepared pesto, divided
- 4 slices slices fresh mozzarella
- 2 Roma tomatoes
- balsamic glaze, to taste
- fresh basil (garnish)
Supplies
- large oven-proof skillet
- pastry brush or spoon
- digital instant-read thermometer
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise, resulting in 4 thinner chicken breasts. Season both sides of chicken breasts with salt and pepper, to taste.
In a large oven-proof skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet, careful to not overcrowd the pan. Cook each side, about 3-5 minutes.
Using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, top each chicken breast with 2 tablespoons of prepared pesto sauce, a slice of mozzarella, and sliced tomatoes.
Place the skillet in the preheated oven. Cook for 10 minutes or until cheese has melted and the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees on a digital instant-read thermometer.
Remove the skillet from the oven drizzle the chicken breasts balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh chopped basil. Serve immediately. Enjoy!
Recipe Notes
If you don’t have balsamic glaze on hand, but you have balsamic vinegar and sweetener such as maple syrup, honey or brown sugar – you can easily prepare this delicious glaze on your stove top.
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons maple syrup, honey or brown sugar
Instructions
In a saucepan over medium heat, add balsamic vinegar and your sweetener of choice. Once the mixture begins to simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low. Continue to simmer until the liquid reduces by half, about 10-15 minutes. Remove the balsamic glaze from the heat and set aside to cool.
Different Ways To Serve Caprese
If you enjoy classic Caprese salad and our simple Caprese chicken, you may be interested in preparing it in other ways. Here are some fresh and delicious ideas for serving up this traditional Italian fare.
Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwiches
Similar to our one-pan Caprese chicken, these grilled chicken Caprese sandwiches are hearty! They are served with piping hot chicken and melty cheese with a bulky bun so you can enjoy this classic meal on the run.
Caprese Quiche
A Caprese quiche will make for a tasty, decadent brunch or dinner. Mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil are encased in a buttery crust, creating a fantastic spin on an Italian classic.
Our easy one-pan Caprese chicken is guaranteed to be a smash hit. You’re friends and family will be begging for seconds!
