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Savory Caprese Stuffed Chicken

caprese stuffed chicken - featured image

A quick and easy stuffed chicken breast recipe featuring melty fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil for a flavorful and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz / 170 g each)
  • 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella balls or sliced
  • 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • About 12 fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lay each chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the side of each breast about 3/4 of the way through, being careful not to cut all the way through.
  3. Season both inside and outside of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs if using.
  4. Stuff each pocket with 2 oz (about 60 g) sliced mozzarella, a handful of halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and 3 basil leaves. Secure the pocket with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
  5. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the mozzarella is melty and slightly golden.
  7. Remove chicken from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and balsamic glaze, then garnish with extra fresh basil leaves.

Notes

If mozzarella oozes too much during searing, add cheese and tomatoes after searing before baking to keep things tidy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently to maintain melty cheese. Avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery chicken and tough cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese, stuffed chicken, mozzarella, basil, cherry tomatoes, quick dinner, easy recipe, low-carb, gluten-free