One summer, I had some fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, and mozzarella sitting in my fridge, and I wanted to make something that felt a little special for dinner. I thought, “Why not stuff all these delicious ingredients into a chicken breast?” The result was this Caprese stuffed chicken recipe that quickly became a family favorite.
The combination of juicy chicken, melty mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil creates a dish that’s both simple and impressive. It’s now my go-to when I want something fresh and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.
| Servings | Total |
| 4 | 35mins |
Where Did You Learn This Recipe?
I came up with this recipe after being inspired by the classic Caprese salad. I wanted to turn those same ingredients into a hearty dinner, and stuffing them into chicken breasts was the perfect solution. It’s a dish I’ve refined over time, and now it’s one of my most requested meals.
Why Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Caprese stuffed chicken breast is a great option because it’s packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and looks beautiful on the plate. The fresh ingredients make it perfect for warm-weather meals, but it’s also cozy enough for any time of year. Plus, it’s versatile and pairs well with so many sides.
What Is Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast Made Of?
This recipe includes simple, fresh ingredients:
- Chicken breasts
- Fresh mozzarella
- Tomatoes (cherry or Roma)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
What to Have with Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Here are some ideas for side dishes that complement this dish perfectly:
- Salad: A simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Pasta: Lightly buttered pasta or pasta with olive oil and garlic.
- Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, or green beans.
- Rice or quinoa: Steamed rice or fluffy quinoa for a filling option.
Is Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast Healthy?
Yes, this recipe is healthy! It’s high in protein, and the use of fresh ingredients like tomatoes and basil adds nutrients without extra calories. You can also control the amount of cheese and oil to make it lighter if desired.
Kitchen Equipment
You’ll need:
- Sharp knife
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Cutting board
- Tongs
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella
- 8–10 fresh basil leaves
- 1 large tomato, sliced (or 6–8 cherry tomatoes, halved)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff the Chicken:
- Stuff each pocket with a slice of mozzarella, a slice of tomato (or a few cherry tomato halves), and 2–3 basil leaves.
- Secure the edges with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling in place.
- Season the Chicken:
- Brush the outside of each chicken breast with olive oil.
- Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Serve:
- Remove the toothpicks or twine, drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired, and serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality mozzarella for the best flavor and texture.
- If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can make a quick version by simmering balsamic vinegar with a bit of sugar until thickened.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to keep it juicy.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, but the cooking time will vary, and the thighs may be trickier to stuff due to their smaller size.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
Caprese stuffed chicken breast is a fresh and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a family dinner or when you want to impress guests. The combination of melty mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil takes simple chicken to the next level. Give this recipe a try—it’s easy, delicious, and sure to become a favorite in your home!
MORE RECIPES
Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Equipment
- Sharp knife
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine
- Large Skillet
- Baking dish
- Cutting board
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella
- 8–10 fresh basil leaves
- 1 large tomato, sliced (or 6–8 cherry tomatoes, halved)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each pocket with a slice of mozzarella, a slice of tomato (or a few cherry tomato halves), and 2–3 basil leaves.
- Secure the edges with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling in place.
- Brush the outside of each chicken breast with olive oil.
- Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove the toothpicks or twine, drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired, and serve hot with your favorite side dishes.