Name: Caprese Stuffed Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491715H20M6S
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/3 cup Olive oil; 1/4 cup Balsamic vinegar, plus more for drizzle after baking; 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 2 cloves Garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Pepper; 4 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed (approx. 6-8 ounces each); 2 Medium Roma tomatoes, halved lengthwise then thinly sliced into half-moon shapes; 8 ounces Fresh mozzarella, sliced thin, then cut in half into half-moon shapes; 1 cup Large basil leaves, cut in half, plus more for garnish; Balsamic glaze for garnish (optional)

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Introduction

This Caprese Stuffed Chicken recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a flavorful Italian-inspired meal. Marinated in a tangy balsamic and garlic mixture, this dish is easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

The image shows three pieces of cooked chicken breasts arranged on a dark metal grill pan with grill marks. Each chicken breast is sliced with thin layers alternating between white melted cheese, bright red tomato slices, and fresh green basil leaves. The top is drizzled with a thick dark balsamic glaze. The chicken looks tender and slightly browned on the edges, and the basil leaves are scattered on and around the chicken for a fresh touch. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/3 cup olive oil
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, plus more for drizzle after baking
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 ounces each), trimmed
2 medium Roma tomatoes, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced into half-moon shapes
8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced thin and cut in half to make half-moon shapes
1 cup large basil leaves, cut in half, plus more for garnish
Balsamic glaze for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the marinade. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours. Remove the chicken from the marinade before baking and discard the marinade.
Step 2: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 3: Place each chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully make four deep cuts crosswise into the top of each breast, about ½ inch apart, without cutting all the way through. Placing chopsticks on either side of the chicken can help prevent cutting through.
Step 4: Stuff each cut with a slice of tomato, mozzarella, and a basil leaf.
Step 5: Arrange the stuffed chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reaches 165°F.
Step 6: Remove the chicken from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if using and garnish with extra basil leaves. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and juiciness.
Italian seasoning can be substituted with a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme if desired.
For added crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts on top before serving.
Try using different cheese varieties like provolone or fontina for a twist on the classic mozzarella.
If balsamic glaze is not available, reduce balsamic vinegar over low heat until thickened as a homemade alternative.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap each stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap and place in a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate with a neatly arranged dish of sliced grilled chicken layered with melted mozzarella cheese and tomato slices, all drizzled with a dark balsamic glaze and garnished with fresh green basil leaves. Next to the chicken, there is a portion of light yellow spaghetti mixed with halved red cherry tomatoes, thin shavings of pale parmesan, and scattered basil pieces, lightly sprinkled with black pepper. A silver fork rests on the plate, holding a piece of the chicken. Around the plate, there are whole red tomatoes and fresh basil leaves on a white marbled surface, along with a small bowl of chopped basil, and part of another white plate with two similar chicken breasts and tomato wedges. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare it with the tomato, cheese, and basil slices up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated until ready to bake.

What can I serve with Caprese Stuffed Chicken?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic for a complete meal.