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Juicy chicken breasts filled with melty mozzarella, fresh tomato slices, and basil, then seared and baked to golden perfection. This Caprese Stuffed Chicken is elegant enough for date night, easy enough for weeknights.
Why We Love This Caprese Stuffed Chicken
It’s a delicious twist on the classic Caprese combo—and it always impresses. Here’s why:
- Cheesy Center: Melty mozzarella inside each bite.
- Fresh Flavors: Tomato and basil keep it light.
- Golden Outside: A quick sear makes a perfect crust.
- Bakes in One Dish: Simple cleanup, no fuss.
- Weeknight-Friendly: Preps in 15, bakes in 20.
Key Ingredients
For full amounts, check the recipe card below. Here’s the essentials:
- Chicken Breasts – Large and thick enough to stuff.
- Fresh Mozzarella – Sliced for easy layering.
- Tomatoes – Sliced, ripe but not too juicy.
- Fresh Basil – Whole leaves or torn.
- Olive Oil + Garlic Powder + Italian Seasoning – For brushing and flavor.
- Toothpicks or Kitchen Twine – To secure the stuffing.
How to Make Caprese Stuffed Chicken
A quick prep and a hot pan is all you need:
- Preheat Oven: Set to 400°F (200°C).
- Prep Chicken: Cut a pocket in the side of each breast without cutting all the way through.
- Stuff: Fill with slices of mozzarella, tomato, and basil. Secure with toothpicks.
- Season: Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Sear: Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet. Sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
- Bake: Transfer skillet to oven and bake 18–20 minutes, until chicken is cooked through (165°F).
- Serve: Remove toothpicks and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
Chef’s Tips and Variations
- Add Pesto: Spread a little inside the pocket for extra flavor.
- Use Sun-Dried Tomatoes: For a more intense tomato kick.
- Try Burrata: Swap in for an ultra-creamy interior.
- No Skillet? Sear in any pan, then transfer to a baking dish.
What to Serve With Caprese Stuffed Chicken
Veggie Sides
Serve with green beans, roasted broccoli, or sautéed spinach.
Carb Options
Pair with garlic mashed potatoes, herbed couscous, or a slice of focaccia.
Something Sippable
A glass of dry rosé or sparkling water with lemon is a perfect match.
Caprese Stuffed Chicken
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes
Servings: 4
This Caprese Stuffed Chicken combines juicy seared chicken with a melty, herb-filled center of mozzarella, tomato, and basil. Finished in the oven and optionally drizzled with balsamic glaze, it’s a simple yet elegant dish packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: balsamic glaze, for serving
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine, to secure
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to slice all the way through.
- Stuff each breast with mozzarella, tomato slices, and basil leaves. Secure with toothpicks.
- Brush outsides with olive oil and season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
- Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 165°F.
- Remove toothpicks, drizzle with balsamic glaze if using, and serve warm.
Notes
- Add-Ons: A swipe of pesto inside adds great flavor.
- Mozzarella Options: Use sliced fresh mozzarella, shredded, or even burrata.
- No Skillet? Sear in a pan, then transfer to a baking dish to finish.
