Caprese Chicken
A simple yet satisfying meal featuring chicken breasts topped with fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts provides a lean protein base
Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided adds aromatic flavor
- to taste Salt and pepper simple seasoning for taste
Cooking Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided for sautéing and moisture
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter adds richness and flavor
Vegetables
- 1/2 large red onion, finely diced for sweetness and depth
- 3 cups halved cherry tomatoes juicy and bright
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic contributes robust flavor
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar adds tangy depth
- 1 teaspoon honey balances acidity
Topping Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese pearls melts to creamy goodness
- 1/3 cup ribboned fresh basil for freshness and color
- to taste Basil pesto for serving adds a flavorful finishing touch
- to taste Parmesan cheese optional, for extra richness
- to taste Balsamic reduction optional, for a sweet drizzle
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice each chicken breast in half widthwise to create two thinner cutlets. If uneven, pound to an even thickness.
- In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, ¾ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. Season one side of the chicken cutlets with half of the mixture.
Cooking
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets seasoned side down, and sprinkle the remaining seasoning mix on top.
- Cook for 4 minutes without flipping, then flip the chicken and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Remove the chicken from the pan, cover with foil to keep warm.
- In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and diced onion. Sauté for 3–5 minutes.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes, remaining Italian seasoning, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, honey, and remaining salt and pepper. Cook for 2–4 minutes.
- Nestle chicken back into the pan with any juices collected. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese pearls around the chicken.
- Cover the pan for about 1 minute to allow the cheese to melt, then add dollops of basil pesto and top with ribboned fresh basil.
- Optionally, drizzle with balsamic reduction and grate fresh Parmesan cheese on top. Serve warm.
Notes
Serve with a simple side salad or garlic bread. Enjoy cold in a salad or in a wrap with leftovers.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 12gSodium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6g
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