Description
This Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe combines juicy, tender chicken breasts with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves, all baked to perfection and drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. It’s a delicious Italian-inspired main course that’s both flavorful and elegant, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Stuffing
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
Finishing
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze, for drizzling
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken Pockets: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through to the other side. This creates space for the stuffing inside the chicken.
- Season Chicken: Season both the inside and outside of each chicken breast evenly with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavors throughout the dish.
- Stuff Chicken: Fill each pocket with generously sliced fresh mozzarella, tomato slices, and fresh basil leaves. Arrange the ingredients evenly inside the pocket for a balanced taste.
- Secure the Filling: Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to close the pocket securely, preventing the filling from falling out during cooking.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place each stuffed chicken breast in the skillet and sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side until both sides develop a golden-brown crust, which locks in flavor and juices.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet directly to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
- Finish and Serve: Carefully remove toothpicks or twine from the chicken breasts. Drizzle each with balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and tang. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra greens, add a few fresh spinach leaves inside the chicken pockets along with the other stuffing.
- If fresh tomatoes are unavailable, substitute with sun-dried tomatoes for a different but delicious flavor.
- Pair this dish with roasted vegetables or a crisp side salad to create a well-rounded meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
