Caprese-Stuffed Chicken Breast

Imagine biting into a tender, juicy chicken breast filled with the classic flavors of a Caprese salad. Sounds heavenly, right? Well, you’re in for a treat because today, we’re going to explore the mouthwatering world of Caprese-Stuffed Chicken Breast! This Italian-inspired dish is not only delicious but also simple enough to make for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The key to this scrumptious recipe is the marriage of fresh ingredients and a little bit of culinary magic. By combining ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, you’ll create a Caprese salad that’ll bring a burst of flavor to every bite of the chicken.

Now, let’s talk about that chicken. You’ll want to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish, as they provide a perfect canvas for the Caprese filling. Don’t be intimidated by the thought of stuffing chicken – it’s easier than you might think!

To start, you’ll need to create a pocket in each chicken breast. Hold the chicken flat on a cutting board, and with a sharp knife, carefully slice horizontally into the thickest part of the breast, stopping about an inch before the other side. This will create a nice, deep pocket for the Caprese filling.

Once the chicken is prepped, it’s time to stuff it with the Caprese goodness. Gently stuff each chicken breast with a slice of ripe tomato, a slice of mozzarella, and a few basil leaves. You can use toothpicks to secure the edges of the chicken, ensuring that the filling stays put while cooking.

Next, you’ll want to give the chicken a delicious golden crust by searing it in a hot skillet. This step not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the chicken moist and tender. After searing, transfer the chicken to the oven to finish cooking, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

As a final touch, drizzle the cooked Caprese-Stuffed Chicken Breast with a delightful balsamic glaze. This sweet and tangy reduction adds another layer of flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy.

There you have it – a simple, yet impressive Caprese-Stuffed Chicken Breast that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Serve it with a light salad or some roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.

So, go ahead, channel your inner Italian chef, and whip up this exquisite Caprese-Stuffed Chicken Breast for your next dinner. Buon appetito!

Caprese-Stuffed Chicken Breast

Course: Main CourseCuisine: Italian

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

Savor the taste of Italy with this juicy Caprese-Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe, bursting with fresh flavors.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 large tomato, sliced

• 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese

• 8-12 fresh basil leaves

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar

• 2 tsp honey

• Toothpicks, for securing

Directions

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Butterfly each chicken breast by cutting a horizontal slit along the thickest part, without cutting all the way through. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
• Stuff each chicken breast with 1 slice of mozzarella, 2-3 tomato slices, and 2-3 basil leaves. Close the chicken breasts and secure with toothpicks.
• Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
• Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
• While the chicken is baking, prepare the balsamic glaze by combining balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened and reduced by half.
• Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Carefully remove the toothpicks.
• Serve the Caprese-Stuffed Chicken Breasts drizzled with the balsamic glaze.

Notes

• For a variation, you can also add a slice of prosciutto to the stuffing.
• Make sure to use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor.
• You can also grill the chicken breasts instead of baking them for a smoky flavor.

This delicious Caprese-Stuffed Chicken Breast pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a light and refreshing meal, serve it alongside a crisp mixed green salad or a classic Italian Caprese salad. If you’re looking for something heartier, consider pairing it with creamy risotto, garlic and herb roasted potatoes, or a simple pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic.

For added freshness, you can also serve it with a side of sautéed or steamed vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or zucchini. This dish is versatile and complements a wide range of flavors, so feel free to mix and match your favorite sides to create your perfect meal.