Flavorful Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, baked to perfection and drizzled with balsamic glaze for a quick and elegant dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz / 170 g each), trimmed and patted dry
- 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
- 2 medium ripe Roma tomatoes, sliced thinly
- About 12 large fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (oregano, thyme, rosemary blend)
- Salt to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon)
- Black pepper to taste (about 1/4 teaspoon)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for brushing
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
- Toothpicks for securing the stuffed chicken breasts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with olive oil.
- Using a sharp knife, cut a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast, slicing almost through but not all the way to create a pouch. Pound breasts to about 1/2-inch thickness if uneven or thick.
- Season inside and outside each pocket with garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each pocket with 2-3 slices of mozzarella, 2-3 slices of tomato, and 3 basil leaves. Secure openings with toothpicks.
- Brush chicken breasts lightly with olive oil on both sides and place seam side down in the baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and cheese is melted.
- Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for a golden top, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with extra basil leaves before serving.
Notes
Do not overstuff chicken breasts to avoid tearing and cheese spilling. Season inside the pocket for best flavor. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Rest chicken after baking to keep it juicy. For dairy-free, substitute mozzarella with avocado or vegan cheese and skip balsamic glaze or use a dairy-free version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken br
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 400
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 5
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 45
Keywords: Caprese, stuffed chicken, mozzarella, basil, tomato, balsamic glaze, easy dinner, weeknight meal, Italian herbs