Hey y'all! If you're looking for an effortlessly delicious dinner that's bursting with vibrant flavors and keeps cleanup to a minimum, this One-pan Caprese chicken is for you. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are topped with melty mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil, all in one skillet—making it perfect for weeknights, dinner parties, or anytime you crave a taste of summer. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This
- Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes, prep to plate.
- Brings the fresh flavors of classic Caprese salad to a hearty main dish.
- All cooked in one pan for less mess and easy cleanup.
- Mozzarella and tomatoes make the chicken juicy and flavorful every bite.
- Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- ¼ cup balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chiffonade
Directions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken temporarily to a plate.
Step 3: Cook Tomatoes
Add halved cherry tomatoes to the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their juices.
Step 4: Layer and Finish in Oven
Return chicken to pan, nestling it among the tomatoes. Top each chicken breast with mozzarella slices. Place the skillet under the broiler (set to high) for 3-4 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and just starting to brown. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Drizzle with balsamic glaze and scatter fresh basil over the chicken. Serve immediately while hot and melty!
Notes
- Pound thicker chicken breasts to an even thickness for even cooking.
- For homemade balsamic glaze, simmer balsamic vinegar until thickened.
- If using dried basil, reduce amount to 1 tablespoon for garnish.
Variations
- Caprese Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless thighs for juicier, richer flavor.
- Grilled One-Pan Caprese Chicken: Grill chicken breasts and finish with toppings in a cast iron pan.
- Spicy Version: Sprinkle red pepper flakes over tomatoes for a subtle kick.
Required Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet (cast iron preferred)
- Tongs
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Broiler (oven with broil setting)
Storage Instructions
Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts. Not recommended for freezing since cheese and tomatoes may change texture.
Suggested Pairings / Serving Recommendations
- Serve over garlic butter pasta, creamy risotto, or fluffy quinoa for a hearty meal.
- Add a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate.
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of sauce and juices.
Pro Tips
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Broil just until the mozzarella is bubbly and lightly golden for the perfect gooey texture.
- Use room-temperature chicken for even cooking and maximum tenderness.
FAQ
Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh slices melt more evenly and give a classic Caprese texture.
What if I don't have an oven-safe skillet?
Transfer the chicken to a baking dish after searing to finish under the broiler.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Omit mozzarella or use a dairy-free cheese alternative for a delicious lactose-free version.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Instructions
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1Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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2Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper on both sides.
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3Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
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4Add cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is nearly cooked through.
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5Top each chicken breast with mozzarella slices. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the chicken is cooked through.
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6Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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