Caprese Stuffed Chicken is a delightful and colorful dish that brings together succulent chicken breasts, creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is not only visually appealing but also bursting with fresh flavors that everyone will enjoy. With its simple preparation and impressive presentation, Caprese Stuffed Chicken makes weeknight dinners special or can elevate your gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a burst of flavor that elevates the meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with a side salad, pasta, or crusty bread to make it a complete meal.
• Healthy Dinner Choice: Low in carbs and packed with protein, it’s a nutritious option for any dinner table.
• Impressive Presentation: The colorful layers of cheese and tomatoes create an eye-catching dish that impresses guests.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Caprese Stuffed Chicken effectively, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Resealable plastic bag or shallow dish
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Non-stick cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for stuffing the chicken without tearing it.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface to cut and prepare ingredients safely.
• Baking sheet: A must-have for even cooking; lined with foil makes cleanup easier.

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Ingredients

Caprese Stuffed Chicken is chicken breasts marinated then stuffed hasselback style with fresh mozzarella, tomato slices, and fresh basil.

For the Marinade

• 1/3 cup Olive oil
• 1/4 cup Balsamic vinegar (plus more for drizzle after baking)
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Pepper

For the Chicken Filling

• 4 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (trimmed, approx. 6-8 ounces each)
• 2 Medium Roma tomatoes (halved lengthwise then thinly sliced to make half-moon shape slices)
• 8 ounces Fresh mozzarella (sliced thin, then cut in half to make half-moon shape slices)
• 1 cup Large basil leaves (cut in half, plus more for garnish if desired)

Garnish (optional)

• Balsamic glaze

How to Make Caprese Stuffed Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the marinade ingredients.
2. Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
3. Pour the marinade over the chicken ensuring all pieces are coated.
4. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours before assembly. Discard the marinade before baking.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400℉. Spray a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place each chicken breast flat on a cutting board.
2. Using a sharp knife, make 4 deep cuts about ½ inch apart into the top of each chicken breast without cutting all the way through.
3. Tip: Place chopsticks down on either side of the chicken to prevent cutting through completely.

Step 4: Stuff the Chicken

Fill each cut with a tomato slice, mozzarella slice, and basil leaf.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Place the stuffed chicken on the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer reads 165℉ when inserted into the thickest part.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if using and garnish with extra chopped basil before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Caprese Stuffed Chicken

Caprese Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Fresh Green Salad

• A light, crisp green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.

Grilled Vegetables

• Seasoned grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add color and flavor to your plate.

Quinoa Pilaf

• A fluffy quinoa pilaf with herbs provides a nutritious and hearty base for the stuffed chicken.

Garlic Bread

• Toasted garlic bread makes for a delightful accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any juices from the chicken.

Balsamic Reduction Drizzle

• A drizzle of balsamic reduction over the chicken enhances its flavor and adds an elegant touch to your presentation.

How to Perfect Caprese Stuffed Chicken

To achieve the best results when making Caprese Stuffed Chicken, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour to ensure it absorbs all the flavors from the marinade.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly by using an instant-read thermometer; it should reach 165℉ in the thickest part.

• Don’t Overstuff: Fill each cut without overstuffing to prevent ingredients from spilling out during cooking.

• Rest Before Serving: Letting the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after baking helps retain its juices for a tender bite.

Best Side Dishes for Caprese Stuffed Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Caprese Stuffed Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some tasty options:

1. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary offer a comforting side that complements the chicken’s flavors.

2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds nutritional value and a pop of color to your plate.

3. Cauliflower Rice: Light and low-carb cauliflower rice seasoned with herbs serves as a great alternative to traditional grains.

4. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, olives, and basil provides a refreshing contrast to warm chicken.

5. Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with lemon zest and parsley makes for an easy and light side.

6. Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach with garlic offers a nutritious and vibrant addition that cooks in just minutes.

7. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil and garlic creates a healthy, low-carb option that pairs beautifully.

8. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brushed with herb butter adds sweetness and crunch to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Caprese Stuffed Chicken, there are a few common mistakes that can hinder your results. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to a lack of flavor. Marinate for at least one hour, but preferably up to 24 hours for the best taste.
• Cutting Too Deep: Making cuts that are too deep can cause the chicken to fall apart during baking. Aim for ½ inch cuts to keep the structure intact.
• Overstuffing the Chicken: Adding too much filling may prevent even cooking. Fill each cut with just enough tomato, mozzarella, and basil for balanced flavors.
• Ignoring Rest Time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after baking can make it dry. Allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
• Not Using a Thermometer: Failing to check the internal temperature can lead to undercooked chicken. Always ensure it reaches 165℉ for food safety.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Caprese Stuffed Chicken

• Wrap each stuffed chicken breast in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Properly stored, they can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Caprese Stuffed Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350℉ and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, cover with a lid, and warm until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Caprese Stuffed Chicken:

What is Caprese Stuffed Chicken?

Caprese Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful dish made with chicken breasts that are marinated and stuffed with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.

How do I make Caprese Stuffed Chicken healthier?

You can use leaner cuts of chicken or substitute low-fat cheese options while keeping all the fresh ingredients for flavor.

Can I use other cheeses in Caprese Stuffed Chicken?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for unique flavors while maintaining that delicious Caprese taste.

How long does Caprese Stuffed Chicken take to prepare?

The total time includes marinating and baking, which takes about 100 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for dinner.

Final Thoughts

Caprese Stuffed Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite herbs or adjusting ingredients based on what you have on hand. This dish is sure to impress at any dinner table, so give it a try!

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Caprese Stuffed Chicken

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Caprese Stuffed Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that transforms ordinary chicken breasts into an extraordinary meal. Stuffed with creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil, this recipe captures the essence of the classic Caprese salad in a satisfying main course. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious. With easy preparation and a beautiful presentation, Caprese Stuffed Chicken will impress your family and guests alike while delivering fresh flavors in every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese
• 2 medium Roma tomatoes
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

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Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken in the marinade and refrigerate for at least one hour.
2. Preheat your oven to 400℉ and prepare a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
3. Make deep cuts in each chicken breast without slicing through completely to create pockets.
4. Stuff each pocket with tomato slices, mozzarella slices, and basil leaves.
5. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165℉.
6. Let rest for five minutes before serving; drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 490mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: For added flavor variations, consider adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the stuffing mix. To enhance the dish further, serve with a light side salad or grilled vegetables.