Chicken Caprese Recipe

Name: Chicken Caprese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total); 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced or small mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine); 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (or whole leaves for garnish); 2 tbsp balsamic glaze or reduction (optional, for drizzling); 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra flavor); 1 tsp dried oregano (optional, for added flavor)

By funsmagcom@gmail.com

January 27, 2025

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Chicken Caprese Recipe

Chicken Caprese combines the juicy, tender flavor of grilled or baked chicken breast with the freshness of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with a balsamic glaze or reduction. This dish is a modern twist on the traditional Caprese salad, incorporating the savory goodness of chicken while maintaining the light, fresh flavors that make Caprese so beloved.

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Marinating the Chicken (Optional, but Recommended):
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each breast is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for more flavor).
- If you’re in a hurry, you can skip the marinating step and proceed to cooking, but marinating the chicken will infuse it with extra flavor.
Cooking the Chicken (Grilled, Baked, or Pan-Seared):
- You have three main options for cooking the chicken. Here’s how to do each:
1. Grilling (Best for Smoky Flavor):
  - Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  - Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  - Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade.
  - Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Be sure not to overcook to avoid dry chicken.
  - Once done, remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to retain moisture.
2. Baking (Best for Even Cooking):
  - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  - Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
  - Season with a bit more salt and pepper.
  - Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  - Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
3. Pan-Seared (Quick & Easy):
  - Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  - Remove the chicken from the marinade and add it to the pan.
  - Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  - If you want a juicy result, after searing, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet for 5-7 minutes to finish cooking without drying out the chicken.

2. Prepare the Caprese Topping:

Slice the Tomatoes: Cut the cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes in half. This will release some of their juices and make them easier to mix with the other ingredients.
Slice the Mozzarella: Slice the fresh mozzarella into 1/4-inch rounds. If you’re using mozzarella pearls, no slicing is needed—just drain and use them directly.
Basil: Thinly slice or shred the basil leaves. You can also leave them whole if you prefer, especially if you want them as a garnish.

3. Assemble the Chicken Caprese:

Top the Chicken: Once the chicken has rested after cooking, place each piece of chicken on a plate. Spoon a generous amount of the tomato and mozzarella mixture over the top of each chicken breast.
Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the Caprese topping to add flavor and shine.
Balsamic Vinegar or Glaze: Finish the dish with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze. The glaze is thicker and sweeter, so if you prefer a more robust flavor, go with the vinegar. If you like a sweeter touch, balsamic glaze is ideal.
Season: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

4. Serve:

Garnish with the fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and added flavor.
Serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, pasta, rice, or a simple green salad.

Serving Suggestions:

With Roasted Vegetables:
Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, or brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with this dish. The savory vegetables balance the freshness of the Caprese toppings.
With Pasta:
Serve this dish alongside a simple pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, tossed with olive oil, garlic, and parmesan. It adds an Italian touch and makes for a well-rounded meal.
With a Salad:
A fresh arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors of the chicken and Caprese topping. The peppery arugula adds a nice contrast to the creamy mozzarella.
With Garlic Bread:
Serve with crispy garlic bread to soak up the balsamic vinegar drizzle and enjoy every bite.

Recipe Variations:

Chicken Caprese with Pesto:
If you love basil, swap out the balsamic glaze for pesto for a herby twist on the classic Caprese. Simply drizzle a bit of pesto over the top of the chicken before adding the tomatoes and mozzarella.
Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad:
For a lighter version, turn this dish into a salad. Grill the chicken, slice it thinly, and arrange it over a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or vinaigrette for a refreshing and healthy option.
Caprese Chicken Skewers:
For a fun appetizer or party dish, make Caprese chicken skewers. Cube the chicken breast and thread it onto skewers with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls. Grill or bake and drizzle with balsamic glaze for an easy, bite-sized version.
Stuffed Chicken Caprese:
For a more indulgent version, stuff the chicken breasts with a mixture of fresh mozzarella, basil, and sun-dried tomatoes. Bake or pan-sear the stuffed chicken and top with fresh tomatoes and a drizzle of balsamic reduction.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Caprese:

Don’t Overcook the Chicken:
To ensure your chicken remains tender and juicy, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken is fully cooked at 165°F (75°C). Overcooking can lead to dry chicken, so keep an eye on it.
Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference:
The fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil are the stars of this dish. Don’t skimp on quality—opt for fresh mozzarella (not the pre-shredded kind) and ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor.
Balsamic Glaze vs. Vinegar:
The choice between balsamic vinegar and balsamic glaze is a matter of preference. The vinegar is tangier and less sweet, while the glaze is sweeter and thicker, which adds a touch of richness to the dish. You can use both for a balance of sweet and tangy.
Rest the Chicken Before Serving:
After cooking, let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
Customize the Toppings:
Feel free to get creative with the toppings. You can add avocado for creaminess or sprinkle some pine nuts on top for a crunchy texture. Additionally, a few sliced red onions or roasted red peppers can add another layer of flavor.

Pairing Ideas for Chicken Caprese:

While Chicken Caprese stands wonderfully on its own, you can elevate the dining experience by pairing it with the right sides, drinks, and even desserts. Below are some excellent pairings to complement this flavorful dish.

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Wine Pairings:

White Wine:
- Chardonnay – A full-bodied white wine with a touch of oak complements the creamy mozzarella and richness of the chicken.
- Sauvignon Blanc – With its crisp acidity and citrus notes, Sauvignon Blanc will balance the richness of the cheese and chicken while highlighting the fresh basil and tomato.
- Pinot Grigio – A light, clean wine like Pinot Grigio is perfect for a fresh and refreshing pairing, especially in the summer when Chicken Caprese is at its best.
Red Wine:
- Pinot Noir – If you prefer red wine, Pinot Noir is a great option. It’s light enough to complement the fresh flavors of the dish without overwhelming them, while still providing depth to the overall experience.
- Chianti – An Italian classic, Chianti pairs beautifully with the flavors of the chicken and tomatoes, particularly when balsamic vinegar is involved.
Rosé:
- Provence Rosé – The dry, crisp nature of a Provence Rosé makes it a wonderful choice for a summer meal. Its subtle fruitiness and acidity work well with the freshness of the tomatoes and basil while adding a touch of elegance.

Side Dishes:

Pasta:
A simple pasta can work beautifully as a side. You can serve your Chicken Caprese with something like a lemon-garlic spaghetti or penne aglio e olio (spaghetti with garlic and olive oil). These dishes are light and allow the chicken to remain the star of the show while still offering an added carbohydrate element.
Roasted Vegetables:
Roasted vegetables are always a great choice to pair with this dish. Try roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus tossed with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. The smoky flavor of the roasted veggies will complement the freshness of the Caprese topping.
Garlic Bread:
A crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to Chicken Caprese. It’s great for soaking up any balsamic glaze or tomato juices left on your plate.
Simple Green Salad:
A light salad made with arugula, spinach, or mixed greens, and dressed with a lemon vinaigrette, would be a nice contrast to the richness of the chicken and mozzarella. You can even add some shaved Parmesan on top for extra flavor.
Cauliflower Rice or Quinoa:
If you’re looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower rice or quinoa would work well with the dish. Both are light and healthy alternatives to traditional grains, offering a subtle base that doesn’t compete with the chicken.
Grilled Corn on the Cob:
If you’re serving Chicken Caprese in the summer, grilled corn is a fantastic side. The sweet, smoky flavor pairs really well with the tangy balsamic and the savory mozzarella.

Chicken Caprese for Meal Prep:

Chicken Caprese is an excellent dish for meal prepping, especially if you’re looking to make a healthy, flavorful meal in advance. Here are some tips for preparing it ahead of time:

Meal Prep Instructions:

Cooking the Chicken:
Cook the chicken as instructed—grill, bake, or pan-sear. Once cooled, store the chicken breasts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Prepare the Caprese Topping:
Prepare the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, but store them separately from the chicken. This will help keep the fresh ingredients from getting soggy. These toppings can last in the fridge for 2-3 days when stored in a container.
Assembling the Meal:
When ready to eat, simply reheat the chicken (either in the microwave or oven), and top with the fresh Caprese mixture right before serving. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or olive oil, and garnish with fresh basil. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!
Freezing (Optional):
If you want to freeze Chicken Caprese, freeze the chicken separately from the topping. For the chicken, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight, and then reheat and top with the fresh Caprese ingredients.
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Note: Freezing the Caprese topping (tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil) isn’t recommended, as tomatoes tend to lose their texture, and mozzarella can become watery. Instead, prepare the toppings fresh when ready to serve.

Chicken Caprese for Special Diets:

This dish can be easily modified to accommodate various dietary needs and preferences. Here’s how you can tweak it for some common diets:

For Low-Carb/Keto Diets:

Skip the pasta and serve with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or roasted vegetables instead. These low-carb options will still give you a delicious base without adding the carbs.
Ensure the mozzarella is full-fat for a more satisfying and keto-friendly meal.

For Gluten-Free Diets:

The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you don’t include pasta or bread as sides. Be sure to check the balsamic vinegar and any pre-packaged ingredients for hidden gluten.
For a gluten-free side, opt for roasted veggies, quinoa, or a light salad.

For Dairy-Free Diets:

Dairy-Free Cheese: You can replace the fresh mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese. Many brands offer dairy-free mozzarella options made from cashews or soy.
Alternatively, you can skip the cheese entirely and add extra basil or even a drizzle of olive oil to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.

For Whole30/Paleo Diets:

Paleo-Friendly Cheese Alternatives: For those following a Whole30 or Paleo diet, it’s best to omit the cheese entirely or replace it with a nut-based cheese like cashew cheese.
Balsamic Vinegar: Make sure your balsamic vinegar doesn’t contain any added sugar, as this is not allowed on the Whole30 diet. Opt for a sugar-free balsamic vinegar or use a reduced balsamic glaze that doesn’t include any sweeteners.

Tips for Perfecting Chicken Caprese:

Chicken Breast vs. Chicken Thighs:
While this recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can swap them for boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. Chicken thighs are slightly more forgiving and stay juicy even if overcooked a bit. They can add a slightly richer flavor to the dish.
Rest the Chicken:
Let the cooked chicken rest for about 5-10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making the chicken moist and tender.
Use Fresh Mozzarella:
Fresh mozzarella (also called bocconcini or burrata) is the key to this dish. If you use pre-shredded mozzarella, the texture and flavor won’t be the same. Fresh mozzarella adds a creamy texture and mild flavor that’s essential to the dish.
Balsamic Reduction or Glaze:
If you prefer a sweeter finish, opt for balsamic glaze. If you’re using balsamic vinegar, you can reduce it to a glaze by simmering it in a small saucepan over low heat until it thickens to a syrupy consistency.
Basil:
For maximum freshness and flavor, add the basil at the very end—either directly on top of the chicken or as a garnish. Basil wilts quickly when cooked, so adding it after cooking ensures its bright, herbal flavor shines through.

Additional Variations to Try:

Caprese Chicken with Prosciutto:
For a more indulgent take, top your chicken with a slice of prosciutto before adding the Caprese topping. The salty prosciutto pairs beautifully with the creamy mozzarella and fresh tomatoes.
Chicken Caprese with Avocado:
Add avocado slices for a creamy texture that complements the other ingredients. This variation adds a bit of healthy fat and works particularly well with grilled chicken.
Caprese Chicken with Pine Nuts:
Toasted pine nuts sprinkled over the chicken add a crunchy, nutty flavor that balances the soft mozzarella and tomatoes.

Conclusion:

This Chicken Caprese recipe is perfect for those who love fresh, vibrant flavors with a healthy, satisfying protein. It’s an easy, flavorful dish that can be made in under an hour but will impress with its combination of juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and fresh basil. Whether you serve it with a side of pasta, a green salad, or simply on its own, Chicken Caprese is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Chicken Caprese is a fresh, light, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its combination of juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic basil, topped off with a rich balsamic drizzle, this dish offers a balance of textures and flavors that will impress anyone at your table.

Whether you serve it as part of a larger meal or on its own, Chicken Caprese is guaranteed to be a hit. The best part is that it’s highly customizable, so you can adjust it to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, and occasions. From grilled chicken to baked, with a variety of sides, wines, and even dessert options, this recipe is versatile and delicious. Enjoy!

Yield: 4