Caprese Stuffed Balsamic Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Caprese Stuffed Balsamic Chicken is a delightful twist on a classic Italian salad, combining juicy chicken breasts with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Finished with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, this dish is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 pinch salt (to season)
• 1 pinch pepper (to season)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 roma tomatoes (sliced thinly)
• 1/4 cup sun dried tomato strips in oil
• 4 mozzarella cheese slices (or cheese of choice)
• 12 basil leaves (divided)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced or finely chopped)
• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare the chicken breasts by slicing a pocket into each one, being careful not to cut all the way through.
2. Step 2: Season the chicken breasts inside and out with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil.
3. Step 3: Stuff each chicken breast pocket with slices of roma tomato, sun dried tomato strips, mozzarella slices, and a few basil leaves.
4. Step 4: Secure the openings with toothpicks if needed to keep the filling inside during cooking.
5. Step 5: Heat a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, then add the stuffed chicken breasts. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.
6. Step 6: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese has melted.
7. Step 7: While the chicken is baking, combine the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens into a glaze (about 5-7 minutes).
8. Step 8: Remove the chicken from the oven and drizzle the balsamic glaze over each breast. Garnish with the remaining basil leaves before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture or experiment with provolone or fontina for different flavors.
• For added spice, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes inside the chicken pockets.
• If you don’t have sun dried tomatoes in oil, soak dry sun dried tomatoes in warm water for 10 minutes before slicing.
• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a low oven to prevent drying out. The balsamic glaze can also be stored separately in the fridge for up to a week.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful result. Adjust cooking time accordingly, usually 5-10 minutes longer depending on thickness.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer or ensure the juices run clear when pierced.

Caprese Stuffed Balsamic Chicken Recipe

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This Caprese Stuffed Balsamic Chicken recipe features juicy chicken breasts stuffed with fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and sun-dried tomatoes, seasoned with Italian herbs, then cooked with a luscious balsamic glaze. A perfect combination of tangy, savory, and fresh flavors that bring the classic Caprese salad into a hearty, satisfying dinner.

• Author: Tara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

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Chicken and Stuffing

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 pinch salt (to season)
• 1 pinch pepper (to season)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 roma tomatoes, sliced thinly
• 1/4 cup sun dried tomato strips in oil
• 4 mozzarella cheese slices (or cheese of choice)
• 12 basil leaves, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced or finely chopped

Balsamic Glaze

• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, making sure not to slice all the way through.
2. Season the Chicken: Season both the outside and inside of the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil to infuse flavor throughout.
3. Stuff the Chicken: Place a slice of mozzarella cheese inside each chicken breast pocket along with 3 basil leaves, a few strips of sun-dried tomatoes, and 2-3 thin slices of roma tomato. Make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed inside the pockets.
4. Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in the juice and adds flavor.
5. Prepare the Balsamic Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar until the sugar dissolves to create a sweet and tangy glaze.
6. Bake the Chicken: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Pour the balsamic glaze over the chicken and scatter the minced garlic and remaining basil leaves on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve: Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes. Plate the chicken breasts topped with any remaining balsamic glaze from the baking dish. Garnish with extra fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your Caprese Stuffed Balsamic Chicken!

Notes

• Ensure chicken breasts are patted dry before seasoning to help the seasonings stick better.
• You can substitute sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil with dry ones rehydrated in warm water if preferred.
• Use fresh mozzarella if available for the best melty texture inside the chicken.
• If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, sear the chicken on the stovetop and then transfer to a baking dish for the oven step.
• The balsamic glaze can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Caprese chicken, stuffed chicken breast, balsamic glaze chicken, Italian chicken recipe, mozzarella stuffed chicken