- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or diced
- Fresh basil leaves (about ½ cup, torn or whole)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh, chopped)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: minced garlic (1–2 cloves) or grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, and oregano. If using garlic, sprinkle minced garlic over the chicken.
Step 3: Arrange Tomatoes and Mozzarella
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken breasts. Top each chicken breast with slices or cubes of fresh mozzarella, distributing evenly.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the tomatoes and mozzarella. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Step 5: Add Basil
During the last 2–3 minutes of baking, scatter fresh basil leaves over the top of the dish. This ensures the basil retains its vibrant color and fragrance.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional basil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients : High-quality mozzarella and ripe cherry tomatoes elevate this dish significantly.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken : Keep an eye on the chicken as it bakes to prevent it from becoming dry. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Make It Heartier : Pair with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or pasta for a complete meal.
- Meal Prep Friendly : Prepare the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick : Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the chicken for added heat.
- Garlic Lovers : Roast minced garlic alongside the tomatoes for deeper flavor.
- Vegan Option : Replace the chicken with tofu or seitan and omit the mozzarella for a plant-based version.
- Caprese Pasta Bowl : Toss leftover chicken and veggies with cooked pasta and marinara sauce for a quick lunch the next day.
Conclusion
Baked Caprese Chicken is a winning combination of simplicity and elegance, making it an excellent choice for both everyday meals and special occasions. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home. So grab your apron, gather your favorite Caprese staples, and get ready to savor every bite!
Buon appetito! 🍴🍅🧀
