Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes. Boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and often stay extra juicy.

Can I make Chicken Caprese with Balsamic Reduction ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the sauce and season the chicken in advance. Then cook when ready to serve.

What is the best mozzarella for this recipe?

Fresh mozzarella provides the best flavor and texture. It melts beautifully and complements the tomatoes and basil.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I add extra vegetables?

Absolutely. Mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach all pair nicely with Chicken Caprese with Balsamic Reduction.

Chicken Caprese with Balsamic Reduction Easy Amazing Dinner

Name: Chicken Caprese with Balsamic Reduction Easy Amazing Dinner
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon avocado oil; 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, divided; 1/2 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced; 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into 1/4 inch pieces; 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon honey; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste

Description

Chicken Caprese with Balsamic Reduction combines juicy chicken breasts, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, and a sweet tangy balsamic sauce for an easy Italian inspired dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon avocado oil

1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, divided

1/2 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced

4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into 1/4 inch pieces

1/3 cup balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon honey

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 garlic cloves, minced

Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C).

2. Whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the sauce for finishing.

3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

4. Heat avocado oil in a large oven safe skillet over medium high heat.

5. Sear chicken for 3 to 4 minutes per side.

6. Add 1 cup of the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and pour the prepared sauce over the chicken.

7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes.

8. Remove from the oven, place mozzarella slices over each chicken breast, and return to the oven for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

9. Halve the remaining cherry tomatoes.

10. Top the cooked chicken with the halved tomatoes, fresh basil, and the reserved balsamic sauce before serving.

Notes

Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes provide the best flavor and texture.

Store bought balsamic reduction can be used as a shortcut.

For even cooking, pound chicken breasts to a uniform thickness before cooking.

A meat thermometer should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the chicken.

For extra heat, add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or chili oil.

Mushrooms can be added with the tomatoes for additional flavor and moisture.

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheat in the microwave for about 1 minute or in a skillet over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes per side.

Freezing is not recommended because the fresh cheese and tomatoes do not hold their texture well.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stove and oven
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with tomatoes and sauce
Calories: 411
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 259mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 44g
Cholesterol: 144mg