If you’re a fan of easy, showstopping chicken dinners, you’re going to fall head-over-heels for Baked Caprese Chicken! Imagine juicy chicken breasts, gooey melted mozzarella, and sweet tomatoes—finished with a drizzle of balsamic for that signature tang. This recipe is a celebration of bright Mediterranean flavors, ready in under 40 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Mediterranean Magic: Every bite bursts with the fresh flavors of basil, tomato, mozzarella, and balsamic—you’ll feel transported to an Italian trattoria.
- Effortless Weeknight Dinner: This Baked Caprese Chicken comes together in one pan, with barely any prep, and is on the table in about half an hour.
- Family Friendly: The mild, cheesy, and slightly sweet flavors are big hits with kids and adults alike—you might wish you made extra!
- Beautifully Impressive: The colorful tomatoes and oozy cheese make this dish look gourmet, even though it’s so simple to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Baked Caprese Chicken is how each simple ingredient works its own magic: fresh herbs brighten the dish, tangy vinegar and juicy tomatoes layer in flavor, and melty cheese brings everything together. You probably have most of these jewels in your kitchen right now!
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose evenly sized pieces for even cooking and super-juicy results.
- Balsamic vinegar: Adds that signature sweet-tart punch and caramelizes as it bakes with the chicken.
- Honey: Just a touch balances out the acidity of the vinegar and enhances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Garlic, minced: Essential for savory depth—fresh is best for maximum flavor.
- Olive oil: Helps everything roast beautifully and blends all the marinade flavors.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs brings that classic Caprese taste.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Brings out all the flavors; don’t skip it.
- Cherry tomatoes: These burst as they roast, adding juiciness and color.
- Large tomatoes, sliced: Lush tomato slices bake right on top of each chicken breast and soak up the sauce.
- Mozzarella cheese slices: Go for whole-milk mozzarella for that perfect, creamy melt.
- Fresh basil, chopped: A generous sprinkle at the end makes the whole dish sing with freshness.
Variations
Baked Caprese Chicken is a dreamy canvas for creativity! Whether you want to accommodate dietary preferences or use what’s in your fridge, here are some easy ways to make it your own:
- Make it dairy-free: Swap the mozzarella for your favorite dairy-free cheese or simply leave it off for a lighter dish.
- Add more veggies: Layer in slices of zucchini, bell pepper, or eggplant for extra color, flavor, and nutrition.
- Try different cheeses: Provolone or fontina taste amazing here, or opt for small mozzarella balls (bocconcini) for a playful twist.
- Go low-carb: Skip the honey—or use your favorite keto sweetener—to reduce the carbs even more.
How to Make Baked Caprese Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken & Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grab a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer in the dish. This ensures every piece bakes up tender and juicy, without overcrowding or uneven cooking.
Step 2: Whisk Up the Marinade
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour this lovely, glossy marinade right over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated for the most flavor.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes & Layer the Caprese Topping
Scatter cherry tomatoes around the chicken (they caramelize while baking!) and lovingly nestle thick slices of tomato on top of each chicken breast. These layers roast together, soaking up the balsamic and mellowing into a sweet, savory topping.
Step 4: Bake, Melt, and Finish
Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken hits an internal temperature of 165°F. Five minutes before it’s done, place a slice of mozzarella over each breast—just enough time for it to bubble and brown. Finish with fresh basil for that classic Caprese flair.
Pro Tips for Making Baked Caprese Chicken
- Get That Golden Cheese: For an irresistible finish, switch your oven to broil for the last minute or two once the cheese is on—just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn!
- Juicy Chicken Every Time: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking before slicing; this locks in all those delicious juices.
- Use Fresh, Ripe Tomatoes: Peak-season tomatoes will make the world of difference, lending color and natural sweetness that really pops.
- Enhanced Balsamic Flavor: Reduce your balsamic in a small pan for a syrupy drizzle to really take your Baked Caprese Chicken over the top.
How to Serve Baked Caprese Chicken
Garnishes
A big handful of freshly chopped basil is classic here—don’t be shy! For an extra spark, add a few grinds of black pepper, or a drizzle of good extra virgin olive oil or balsamic glaze just before serving. Scatter some extra roasted cherry tomatoes around for color and juiciness.
Side Dishes
Baked Caprese Chicken pairs beautifully with all your Italian favorites: a bowl of al dente pasta, silky mashed potatoes, a simple risotto, or a crusty loaf of artisan bread to mop up the sauce. For a lighter touch, serve with a big crisp green salad or roasted asparagus.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, slice each chicken breast and fan it out over a bed of arugula, then spoon over those juicy tomatoes and basil. Try mini individual casseroles for a bistro vibe or serve over crostini as a party appetizer—impressive, but so simple!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Caprese Chicken keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Store any extra sauce and tomatoes separately if you’d like, and reheat gently to keep things juicy and tender.
Freezing
Freezing is best without the cheese and fresh basil—simply bake the chicken and tomatoes, freeze in a well-sealed container for up to 2 months, then add fresh cheese and basil when you reheat.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a covered baking dish at 350°F until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep the chicken moist. Microwave works too for a quick lunch—just keep heat low and be sure not to overdo it.
FAQs
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Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for Baked Caprese Chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully here—just keep in mind they may take a few extra minutes to cook through since they’re a bit thicker and richer. The result is equally flavorful and juicy.
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What’s the best way to tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
The most reliable method is a meat thermometer: once the thickest part of your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), you’re good to go! If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest piece and make sure the juices run clear.
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Can I prepare Baked Caprese Chicken ahead of time?
Definitely. You can marinate the chicken and assemble everything in your baking dish earlier in the day. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake—it makes dinnertime a breeze!
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Is Baked Caprese Chicken gluten free?
Yes, as written, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check your balsamic vinegar and other ingredients to ensure they’re safe if you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivity.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience how easy—and how impressive—Baked Caprese Chicken can be. With its juicy chicken, vibrant summer flavors, and creamy cheese, this dish brings the sunshine to any table. Give it a try and watch your friends and family swoon with every bite!
Print
Baked Caprese Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Baked Caprese Chicken recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Caprese salad. Tender chicken breasts are marinated in a flavorful balsamic glaze, topped with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, and baked to perfection. A simple yet elegant dish that is sure to impress!
Ingredients
Marinade:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tablespoons honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of pepper
Additional:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- Chopped basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken in a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Make the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the chicken: Pour the marinade over the chicken, add cherry tomatoes around the chicken, and place tomato slices on top.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Add mozzarella cheese slices during the last 5 minutes to melt.
- Garnish: Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
