Savory Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast
A quick and easy stuffed chicken breast recipe featuring fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with classic Italian flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6–8 oz / 170-225g each)
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 large ripe tomato, thinly sliced (Roma or vine-ripened)
- 8–10 fresh basil leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing horizontally through the middle, stopping about ½ inch from the edge to create a pocket.
- Season the chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Stuff each chicken breast pocket with slices of mozzarella, tomato, and basil leaves. Close and secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Prepare the balsamic glaze by combining balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low and cook until thickened and reduced by half, about 8-10 minutes.
- Heat olive oil and butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When butter foams, sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks if used.
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the chicken before serving.
Notes
Use a sharp knife to butterfly the chicken evenly. Do not overstuff to prevent filling from spilling. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption. Rest chicken after cooking to keep it juicy. Avoid burning the balsamic glaze by reducing heat if it smells bitter.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken br
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 1.5
- Protein: 45
Keywords: Caprese, stuffed chicken breast, mozzarella, basil, balsamic glaze, easy dinner, Italian, quick recipe