Caprese Stuffed Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that feels fancy but is simple to make, you’ve come to the right place! Caprese Stuffed Chicken is one of those recipes that never fails to impress. The combination of marinated chicken breasts filled with fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil is simply irresistible. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but also ideal for family gatherings when you want to wow your loved ones with a delightful meal.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s not only delicious but also showcases fresh ingredients that bring everyone together at the dinner table. Each bite is bursting with flavor, and trust me, once you try this Caprese Stuffed Chicken, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the classic flavors of Caprese salad, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead option: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for an easy weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week!
• Healthy and wholesome: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, this dish will keep you feeling satisfied without weighing you down.
• Beautiful presentation: The colorful layers of cheese, tomato, and basil create an eye-catching dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are all simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Caprese Stuffed Chicken recipe. Let’s gather everything we need!

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

• 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)
• Balsamic glaze for garnish (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or what flavors you love.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or even stuffed portobello mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
• Change up the cheese: Opt for goat cheese or feta if you’re looking for a tangy twist.
• Add some heat: Slice up some jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes between your layers for an extra kick.
• Mix in veggies: Add spinach or roasted red peppers inside the chicken for added flavor and nutrition.

How to Make Caprese Stuffed Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a small bowl, whisk together all of your marinade ingredients. This step not only adds flavor but helps tenderize the chicken too! Place your chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over them, and make sure they’re well coated. Refrigerate for at least an hour—this can be done up to 24 hours ahead of time—so those flavors really soak in.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400℉. While it heats up, take a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil and spray it with non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure your wonderful stuffed chicken doesn’t stick when it bakes!

Step 3: Cut and Fill the Chicken

Lay each chicken breast flat on your cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully make four deep cuts across the top of each breast about ½ inch apart. Make sure not to cut all the way through! A great tip is placing chopsticks on either side of the chicken as guides—this helps prevent any accidents while cutting. Now comes the fun part: fill each cut with slices of tomato, mozzarella, and basil leaves.

Step 4: Bake Your Creation

Place your beautifully stuffed chicken onto the prepared baking sheet and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until an instant-read thermometer shows 165℉ in the thickest part of each breast. This ensures perfectly cooked chicken that’s safe to eat!

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

After removing your dish from the oven, let it rest for about five minutes—this allows all those juices to settle. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top if you’d like (it adds such a lovely touch!), sprinkle some extra chopped basil on top for color, and voilà! Your Caprese Stuffed Chicken is ready to be served and enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Caprese Stuffed Chicken

Creating the perfect Caprese Stuffed Chicken is easier than you think! Here are some tips to help you nail it every time.

• Marinate Longer for Maximum Flavor: The longer you allow the chicken to marinate, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 4 hours, or even overnight, if you can!
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes make all the difference in flavor and texture. They enhance the dish and give a vibrant taste that’s hard to replicate with substitutes.
• Check the Temperature: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat, use an instant-read thermometer. This prevents overcooking and keeps your chicken juicy.
• Experiment with Cheese: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using a different type of cheese! Goat cheese or a sharp cheddar can add a unique twist to your Caprese experience.
• Don’t Skip the Balsamic Drizzle: A drizzle of balsamic glaze not only adds a beautiful presentation but also enhances the flavor profile with a touch of sweetness that complements the savory chicken.

How to Serve Caprese Stuffed Chicken

Serving Caprese Stuffed Chicken can be as delightful as preparing it! Here are some creative ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: Sprinkling extra basil leaves on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Balsamic Glaze: A light drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving enhances both flavor and presentation.
• Chopped Tomatoes: For an added touch, consider scattering some extra chopped tomatoes around the plate for color and freshness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables tossed in garlic and olive oil pair well with the stuffed chicken and add a nutritious element to your meal.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken while keeping things refreshing.
• Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous flavored with herbs provides a lovely base that soaks up any juices from the chicken.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed greens salad topped with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish while adding crunch.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Caprese Stuffed Chicken dinner is bound to impress family or guests alike. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best aspects of Caprese Stuffed Chicken is how well it lends itself to meal prep! You can prepare this dish in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to handle leftovers, freezing, and reheating.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the balsamic glaze separate to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

• Wrap each stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350℉ until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual pieces on medium power until heated to your liking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Caprese Stuffed Chicken!

Can I use other cheeses instead of mozzarella in Caprese Stuffed Chicken?

Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile.

How long does it take to marinate Caprese Stuffed Chicken?

Marinating the chicken for at least 1 hour is ideal, but you can let it sit for up to 24 hours for even more flavor. Just make sure not to skip this step!

Can I make Caprese Stuffed Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the stuffed chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

What sides pair well with Caprese Stuffed Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. The bright flavors complement each other beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delicious Caprese Stuffed Chicken as much as I do! With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe brings everyone together. Happy cooking and bon appétit!