Easy Caprese Stuffed Chicken

Name: Easy Caprese Stuffed Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves; 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Classic Recipes

I love making Easy Caprese Stuffed Chicken because it combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with juicy chicken breasts. The burst of fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella creates a delightful contrast in every bite. This recipe is not only straightforward but also perfect for impressing guests or a family dinner. The sharpness of balsamic glaze adds a touch of elegance, making it a favorite at my kitchen table. Let's dive into this delicious dish together; I promise it's a crowd-pleaser!

Created by

Jackies

Last updated on 2026-02-06T15:10:27.672Z

I remember the first time I made Easy Caprese Stuffed Chicken for a dinner party. Everyone raved about how tender the chicken was and how the flavors melded wonderfully. I discovered that searing the chicken before baking helps lock in the juices, resulting in a succulent meal. It’s so simple yet makes a stunning presentation.

Over time, I’ve tweaked the recipe by adding sun-dried tomatoes for an extra punch of flavor, which has become a staple in my kitchen. The key is ensuring the chicken is cooked through while keeping the stuffing warm and gooey. Everyone who tries it asks for the recipe!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy chicken stuffed with fresh, vibrant ingredients
Easy to prepare yet impressively delicious
Perfect for meal prep or entertaining

      

Mastering Chicken Pockets

Creating perfect chicken pockets is essential for this recipe. You want to slice horizontally into each chicken breast, careful not to cut all the way through. The aim is to create a deep pocket that can hold all the fresh ingredients without spilling out during cooking. If unsure, you can use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, which helps in creating smaller, neater pockets and ensures even cooking.

When seasoning the outside of the chicken, don't be shy with salt and pepper. This helps enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and complements the fresh herbs and cheese inside. If you'd like a bit of heat, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix; this adds a nice kick without overpowering the beautiful Caprese flavors.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Searing the chicken before baking is a key step that truly elevates this dish. By doing so, you lock in the juices and develop a beautiful golden crust that adds texture and visual appeal. Make sure your skillet is well-heated with oil shimmering before adding the chicken; this prevents sticking and ensures proper browning. Look for a golden-brown crust on each side before transferring the skillet to the oven.

When baking, use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees that it is fully cooked but still juicy. If you're cooking for a larger group, scaling up is easy: just increase the number of chicken breasts and adjust your cooking time slightly, but check the temperature before serving to avoid dryness.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a flavorful dish.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

With these ingredients, you're ready to create a delectable meal.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps for a wonderfully stuffed chicken.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Chicken

Make a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing horizontally without cutting all the way through.

Stuff the Chicken

Layer the mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil inside each chicken pocket, then season the outside with salt and pepper.

Sear the Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Bake the Chicken

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Drizzle Balsamic Glaze

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Easy Caprese Stuffed Chicken!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian dressing for an hour before cooking. You can also substitute basil with arugula for a peppery twist.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover Caprese stuffed chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors of the tomatoes and basil will continue to meld, enhancing the dish. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through, ideally covered with foil to retain moisture.

For long-term storage, consider freezing the stuffed chicken. Wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, labeling with the date. This method can extend the shelf life to about 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed veggies. The freshness of arugula drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice complements the Caprese flavors wonderfully. Alternatively, offering a side of garlic bread can help soak up the delicious juices from the chicken, enhancing the overall dining experience.

For a delightful twist, try topping the baked chicken with a sprinkle of pine nuts or a light drizzle of pesto before serving. These additions bring a lovely crunch and enhance the Italian-inspired theme of the dish. Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, which can be roasted and served alongside.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh herbs offer a more vibrant flavor. If using dried, reduce the amount by about one-third.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is finished when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can stuff the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just sear and bake when you're ready to serve.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

A light salad or roasted vegetables would complement the dish perfectly. Garlic bread is also a great addition!