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This baked Caprese chicken brings together all the classic flavors of the Italian salad in a warm and comforting meal. With golden juicy chicken, sweet roasted tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil draped in a tangy balsamic glaze, it is perfect for weeknights or family gatherings.
The first time I made this was for a Sunday dinner after a busy week I wanted something special but easy and everyone loved how the flavors came together so simply
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Select plump boneless skinless pieces for juiciness and easy eating
- Olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the marinade flavor every bite Choose extra virgin for best taste
- Italian seasoning: Gives the chicken its herby savory backbone Make sure your spices are fresh for maximum flavor
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for amplifying all the other ingredients
- Balsamic vinegar: For both marinating and the glaze Opt for a quality balsamic for deeper sweetness and tang
- Cherry tomatoes: Small ripe ones burst and caramelize perfectly in the oven Look for firm tomatoes with sweet fragrance
- Bocconcini mozzarella balls: Halved for easier melting and gooey centers Fresh mozzarella really makes a difference here
- Fresh basil: Adds brightness and the classic Caprese note Tear leaves just before using for peak aroma
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or bowl with olive oil Italian seasoning salt black pepper and a splash of balsamic vinegar Make sure each piece is well coated Let it marinate in the fridge for at least fifteen minutes or up to overnight This step infuses the chicken with flavor and keeps it juicy in the oven
- Prep for Baking:
- Preheat your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit Arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer in an eight inch square baking dish Nestle the cherry tomato halves around the chicken The juices from the tomatoes help keep the chicken moist as they roast
- First Bake:
- Bake the dish for about twenty minutes The tomatoes should start softening and giving off their sweet juices The chicken will begin to turn opaque but is not finished yet
- Add Cheese Finish Baking:
- Scatter the halved bocconcini evenly over the chicken Return the dish to the oven and keep baking for another ten to fifteen minutes The cheese should bubble and turn a golden color and the chicken should reach an internal temperature of one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit
- Make the Balsamic Glaze:
- While the chicken bakes pour the rest of the balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan Over low heat simmer until it thickens and reduces by half which takes about five to seven minutes Stir now and then so it does not burn The glaze will be syrupy and very flavorful
- Rest and Finish:
- Once baked let the dish rest for ten minutes before serving This crucial pause lets the juices settle and guarantees a moist tender chicken Drizzle the balsamic glaze generously over the top and sprinkle fresh basil to finish
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My favorite part is that balsamic glaze I could eat it on everything Once my husband surprised me with homegrown cherry tomatoes and we made this together they tasted even sweeter and made the meal feel extra special
Storage Tips
Store any leftover baked Caprese chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator It keeps well for up to four days When ready to enjoy again reheat the chicken gently in a three hundred fifty degree oven or air fryer for about ten to fifteen minutes This method keeps the chicken juicy and revives the cheesy topping without drying it out
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can not find bocconcini use sliced fresh mozzarella or even burrata for an extra creamy texture Roma tomatoes can stand in for cherry tomatoes if that is what you have on hand Also homegrown or hydroponic basil adds an amazing aroma If you want to skip the homemade glaze bottled balsamic reduction works in a pinch but making it fresh is definitely worth the small effort
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like garlic roasted potatoes or lemony arugula salad If you have crusty bread handy it is perfect for soaking up the pan juices I have even sliced leftovers to make a delicious sandwich with extra basil and some greens
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Cultural Context
Caprese flavors are a classic trio from the island of Capri in Italy and feature in countless Italian dishes This version transforms them into a hearty meal that still honors their Mediterranean freshness and color It is a comforting homey way to celebrate Italian traditions any time of year
Recipe Questions
- → How long should the chicken marinate?
For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes, but up to overnight enhances flavor and moisture.
- → Why let the chicken rest after baking?
Resting allows juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy chicken breasts every time.
- → Can I substitute mozzarella balls?
Yes, sliced fresh mozzarella works just as well if bocconcini is unavailable.
- → How do I make balsamic glaze?
Simply simmer balsamic vinegar over low heat until it's thickened and reduced by half, stirring occasionally.
- → What is the ideal internal temperature for chicken?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe and juicy results.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat at 350°F until warmed through.