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To make Caprese Chicken Skillet, gather these fresh items: - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn - 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional) Fresh ingredients make this dish shine. Choose bright, firm tomatoes. Look for mozzarella that is soft and creamy. Fresh basil should smell sweet and fragrant. Use chicken that is pink, not gray. This ensures great flavor and texture in your meal. If you want to switch things up, try these options: - Replace chicken with turkey or tofu for a twist. - Use grape tomatoes if cherry tomatoes are not available. - Swap mozzarella for goat cheese for a tangy flavor. - Add spinach for extra greens and nutrients. These changes can still keep the meal tasty and healthy! {{ingredient_image_1}} - Gather your ingredients: - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn - 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional) - Wash the cherry tomatoes and basil. Halve the tomatoes and tear the basil leaves. - Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. 1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. 2. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side. 3. Look for a golden brown color. The chicken should be fully cooked at 165°F. 4. Remove the chicken and set it aside. 5. In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften. 6. Turn down the heat to medium-low. Return the chicken to the skillet. 7. Scatter the mozzarella balls over the chicken and tomatoes. 8. Cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the cheese melts. 9. Remove from heat and fold in the torn basil leaves. 10. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if you like, then serve warm. - Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 165°F. - Cut into the chicken; the juices should run clear, not pink. - If you don’t have a thermometer, cooking until golden brown helps ensure doneness. To keep your chicken juicy, do not overcook it. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C). This ensures it's safe to eat and not dry. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting. This helps keep the juices inside. A large skillet works best for this dish. Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking. It also helps with easy cleanup. A meat thermometer is key to check the chicken's doneness. You might want to have a lid handy to melt the cheese quickly. Serve the Caprese chicken with a side of pasta or a fresh salad. You can also pair it with crusty bread to soak up the juices. Drizzle some extra balsamic glaze on top for added flavor. Garnish with more fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. Pro Tips Perfectly Cooked Chicken: To ensure your chicken breasts are juicy and tender, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh mozzarella and basil. The freshness will elevate the overall taste of the dish. Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary to give a unique twist to the seasoning. Balsamic Glaze Finish: Drizzling balsamic glaze just before serving adds a wonderful sweetness and acidity that complements the dish beautifully. {{image_2}} If you want a vegetarian version, try using eggplant or zucchini. Cut these veggies into thick slices. Sauté them in olive oil until soft. They soak up flavor well and add a nice texture. You can also use firm tofu. Press it to remove water, then cube it. Cook it until golden and crispy for a tasty twist. Herbs and spices can change the taste of this dish. Consider adding fresh oregano or thyme for a different vibe. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add heat if you like it spicy. You can also mix in some lemon zest. This adds a bright flavor that pairs well with the cheese and tomatoes. While fresh mozzarella is great, other cheese can work well too. Try goat cheese for a tangy taste. It melts nicely and adds creaminess. Feta cheese is another option. It gives a salty kick that contrasts with the sweet tomatoes. You can even use a dairy-free cheese for a vegan dish. Just make sure it melts well. To keep your Caprese Chicken Skillet fresh, let it cool first. Place the leftover chicken and veggies in an airtight container. This helps prevent spoilage. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you plan to eat it later, make sure to label the container with the date. When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you have a few options. The best way is to reheat it on the stove. Place it in a skillet over medium heat. Stir gently until heated through. You can also use a microwave if you’re short on time. Heat it in 30-second bursts until warm. Just be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can dry out. If you want to save the dish for longer, freezing is a great option. First, cool the dish completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, make sure to thaw it first. Cooking frozen chicken in a skillet can lead to uneven cooking. Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or use the microwave. After thawing, follow the recipe as usual. This ensures juicy and tender chicken every time. Caprese Chicken Skillet pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options: - Rice: Try white, brown, or even cauliflower rice. - Pasta: A light pasta with olive oil works well. - Salad: A fresh green salad adds crunch and color. - Bread: Garlic bread or a baguette is perfect for dipping. These sides complement the flavors and make your meal feel complete. You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. Place the chicken in an airtight container to keep it fresh. For longer storage, freeze the leftovers. They can last for about three months in the freezer. Just remember to reheat until hot to enjoy the best taste. In this blog, we explored how to make a delicious Caprese Chicken Skillet. We covered essential ingredients, tips for perfect cooking, and creative variations to try. Remember, using fresh ingredients leads to better flavor. Always check chicken doneness to avoid dryness. Proper storage helps keep leftovers tasty. With these steps and tips, you can cook confidently. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides or add your own twist. Cooking can be fun and rewarding, so dive in and explore!

Caprese Chicken Skillet

A delicious and easy one-pan dish featuring chicken breasts, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  • Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes are softened and their juices are released.
  • Lower the heat to medium-low and return the chicken to the skillet. Scatter the fresh mozzarella balls over the chicken and tomatoes.
  • Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Remove from heat and fold in the torn basil leaves for a fresh flavor boost.
  • Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Drizzle with balsamic glaze for extra flavor if desired.
Keyword caprese, chicken, easy dinner, skillet