Description
This Baked Caprese Chicken is a deliciously simple Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with fresh tomatoes, melted mozzarella, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s bursting with classic Caprese flavors and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. Season both sides of each breast with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly to infuse flavor.
- Initial Bake: Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is nearly cooked through but not fully done.
- Add Toppings: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Top each chicken breast with 2 slices of fresh tomato followed by 2 slices of mozzarella cheese.
- Final Bake: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the mozzarella has melted and become bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle the baked chicken with balsamic glaze and sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the top. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, minced garlic, and Italian herbs for 30 minutes before baking.
- Cherry tomatoes can be used instead of large slices for a sweeter burst of flavor.
- If fresh mozzarella is unavailable, provolone cheese is a suitable alternative.
