If you’re in the mood for classic Italian food but need something quick and elegant, look no further than this Chicken Caprese recipe. It’s a one-pan, skillet dinner made with seared chicken breasts and a handful of fresh Italian ingredients. It’s so easy to make and tastes incredible.
What is chicken Caprese?
Chicken Caprese is named after the famous Italian salad, Caprese salad. This simple salad is made with fresh mozzarella cheese, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic basil leaves seasoned with a balsamic glaze. These wonderful flavors pair well with most dishes, which is why it’s so common to create Caprese-inspired recipes, especially featuring chicken! Here are some reasons why I love this recipe:
Easy but elegant. This is the kind of dinner that is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special events. Perfect texture and flavor. The texture of the chicken is extra juicy and moist, and the tomatoes and basil soft and tender. It’s full of zesty Italian flavors that is enhanced by the melty cheese. Skillet or oven option. I prefer using a skillet to cook this dish but it also can be oven baked too!
Ingredients needed
This Caprese chicken is so easy to make, and besides the chicken and some pantry staples, there isn’t much else needed to make. Here is what you’ll need:
Chicken breasts. Use boneless and skinless chicken breasts that are the same size and thickness. Italian seasoning. Use store-bought or a homemade blend of dried oregano, rosemary, thyme, basil, and marjoram. Salt and black pepper. To taste. Olive oil. To prevent the chicken from sticking as it sears. Balsamic vinegar. For the best sweet-tart flavor, use a good-quality aged balsamic vinegar or a high-quality balsamic vinegar from Modena, Italy. Brown sugar. It balances the flavors and helps the Caprese sauce thicken into a glaze-like consistency. Garlic cloves. Freshly minced for a deeply savory flavor. Cherry tomatoes. Cut in half or quarters, depending on their size. Grape tomatoes also work. Basil. Fresh basil is a must! Mozzarella. Look for a ball or log of fresh mozzarella packed in water or brine. This variety has a soft and creamy texture and melts beautifully over the chicken.
Find the printable recipe with measurements below.
How to make Caprese chicken
Step 1- Season the chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Step 2- Sear the chicken: Heat the oil in a large pan over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Sear until both sides are nicely browned. Transfer the seared chicken to a plate. Step 3- Make the Caprese sauce: Add the balsamic vinegar, sugar, and garlic to the now empty pan, and cook. Next, add the tomatoes and sauté until fragrant. Finally, stir in the basil. Step 4- Assemble: Nuzzle the chicken into the sauce and top each piece with a slice of mozzarella. Reduce the heat, cover with a lid, and cook until the cheese melts. Step 5- Serve: Spoon some sauce over the chicken, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve hot.
Alternative cooking methods
While I prefer cooking the chicken in a skillet, I’ve also tested this recipe by baking it in the oven, so you have options! Start by prepping the chicken as instructed, then whisk the Caprese sauce. Grease a baking dish, then place the chicken in it. Next, add the tomatoes and basil to the chicken. Drizzle the sauce all over it. Now, bake for 20-25 minutes, before adding the cheese and broiling for 5 minutes. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken to make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165F before removing it from the oven.
Tips to make the best recipe
Start with thin chicken breasts. If your chicken breasts are thick, consider slicing and pounding them into thinner chicken cutlets so they cook quicker and more evenly. Season generously. To achieve a nice sear on the outside while locking in the juices, pat the chicken dry with paper towels and generously season both sides with the seasonings. Melt the cheese under the broiler. If the cheese is taking a while to melt on top of the chicken, consider placing the oven-safe skillet under the broiler until it becomes hot and gooey.
Storage instructions
To store: Let the leftover Caprese chicken cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3 to 4 days. To reheat: Heat the leftover chicken and sauce in a baking dish in a 350ºF oven until warmed through.
Frequently asked questions
More Italian chicken recipes to try
Chicken Milanese Parmesan crusted chicken Tuscan chicken Chicken Florentine Chicken Piccata
The recipe originally published June 2023 but updated to include new information for your benefit. Use leftovers to make a delicious chicken Caprese sandwich or serve over mixed greens for an elegant chicken Caprese salad.
