This Easy Baked Caprese Chicken is a colorful and tasty dish! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and gooey mozzarella cheese—yum!
I love how quick and simple it is to make this dish. Just pop it in the oven and enjoy a delicious dinner with minimal fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken thighs work well too; they keep the dish juicy.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor. If you run out, use avocado oil or canola oil—just avoid oils with strong flavors like coconut.
Tomatoes: I love using ripe tomatoes for their sweetness, but cherry or grape tomatoes are fantastic too! They roast beautifully and add a burst of flavor.
Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella is key for this recipe, giving that creamy texture. If needed, you can use shredded mozzarella, but it won’t melt quite the same way.
Basil: Fresh basil is a must for that classic Caprese taste. If you can’t find it, dried basil works in a pinch, but reduce the amount since it’s more concentrated.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but here are some tips to help you achieve juicy results:
- Start with evenly sized chicken breasts. You can pound them slightly to ensure even cooking.
- Season generously. Salt not only enhances flavor but also helps the chicken stay moist.
- Use a meat thermometer. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating without drying out.
- Let it rest! After baking, let the chicken sit for a few minutes before cutting into it. This helps retain juices.
With these tips and ingredient notes, you’ll have a delicious Easy Baked Caprese Chicken ready to impress!
Easy Baked Caprese Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced (or grape/cherry tomatoes as garnish)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped or whole for garnish
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar (optional, for drizzling)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional, for roasting along)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Baked Caprese Chicken will take you about 10 minutes to prepare. Then, it bakes for 20-25 minutes. Total time is around 30-35 minutes from start to mouthwatering finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven and Dish:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, grab a baking dish and lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Chicken:
Next, take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely! Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This adds great flavor to the chicken.
3. Arrange the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, making sure they’re in a single layer. This ensures even cooking.
4. Add Olive Oil and Tomatoes:
Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the chicken, giving it an extra touch of flavor. Now, take your tomato slices and arrange them on top of each chicken breast neatly.
5. Top with Mozzarella:
Next, layer on the slices of fresh mozzarella cheese over the tomatoes. This is what will give you that gooey, melty goodness!
6. Roast Those Cherry Tomatoes (Optional):
If you’re using cherry tomatoes, scatter them around the chicken in the baking dish. They’ll roast beautifully and add a sweet flavor!
7. Bake in the Oven:
Pop the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should be fully cooked (reach at least 165°F/75°C) and the mozzarella should be bubbly and slightly golden.
8. Add Fresh Basil:
Once you take the chicken out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped basil leaves over the top for that perfect Caprese finish!
9. Drizzle and Serve:
If you like, drizzle with balsamic glaze or vinegar for a touch of sweetness. Serve the baked Caprese chicken hot, and feel free to pair it with a side of veggies or your favorite pasta dish!
Enjoy this fresh and colorful meal filled with classic Caprese flavors, all made easily in your kitchen!
FAQ About Easy Baked Caprese Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time a bit, as thighs may take a little longer to cook through—aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
No worries! If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil instead. Use about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Sprinkle it in while seasoning the chicken for flavor!
Can I Prep This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish a few hours in advance. Simply season the chicken and layer the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s chilled.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. Enjoy the flavors again!
