Enjoy a delicious and vibrant meal with this Baked Caprese Chicken! This dish combines tender chicken breasts with fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, all drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. It’s a delightful way to bring the classic flavors of a Caprese salad into a hearty, satisfying main course. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends! 🎉
The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella on top of the chicken creates a burst of flavor in every bite. The simple preparation and quick baking time make this dish a favorite for busy evenings when you want to serve something wholesome and delicious. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze! 🌟
Let’s dive into this easy and flavorful recipe for Baked Caprese Chicken that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation! 🍽️
🎄 Baked Caprese Chicken Recipe 🍅🧀🍗
Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Pinch of pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- Chopped basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken breasts in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Add the cherry tomatoes around the sides of the chicken and place the sliced tomatoes on top of the chicken.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). In the last 5 minutes of baking, add the mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken to melt.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped basil if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious Baked Caprese Chicken!
🎅 Tips & Variations
- Add Extra Flavor: Consider adding sliced red onion or fresh spinach for added texture and flavor.
- Grilled Version: For a smoky twist, grill the chicken instead of baking it, and top it with the same ingredients.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of quinoa, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
This Baked Caprese Chicken is not only beautiful but also bursting with fresh flavors that will make your taste buds sing! Enjoy every bite of this delicious dish! 🍗🌿🥗