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Quick Caprese Chicken Breast Recipe Easy 25 Minute Dinner Idea

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A quick and easy Caprese chicken recipe combining juicy chicken breasts with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and a tangy balsamic glaze, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz or 170 g each), thin-cut or pounded thin
  • 4 oz (115 g) fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • 2 medium ripe tomatoes (Roma or vine-ripened), sliced
  • About a handful of fresh basil leaves, torn or whole
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) balsamic vinegar, reduced to a glaze
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for a touch of heat

Instructions

  1. Prepare the balsamic glaze: Pour 1/4 cup (60 ml) balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it reduce until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Prep the chicken: If thick, place chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment paper and gently pound to about 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. Sear the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Add chicken breasts and cook 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
  4. Add Caprese toppings: Reduce heat to low. Layer slices of mozzarella and tomatoes over each chicken breast. Cover skillet with lid or foil and cook 2-3 minutes until cheese melts.
  5. Finish with basil and glaze: Remove skillet from heat. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over chicken. Drizzle balsamic glaze evenly on top.
  6. Serve immediately: Plate chicken breasts, spoon any remaining glaze from pan over the top, and serve with your favorite side.

Notes

Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for faster, more even cooking. Use a hot pan to get a golden sear. Add garlic just before chicken to avoid burning. Cover skillet to melt cheese gently. Watch balsamic glaze carefully to prevent burning. Rest chicken briefly before serving. For oven-safe skillets, cheese can be melted under broiler for 1-2 minutes instead of covering on stove.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese chicken, quick dinner, easy chicken recipe, balsamic glaze, mozzarella, basil, low-carb, gluten-free

Find it online: https://sunnysavory.com/quick-caprese-chicken-breast-recipe-easy-25-minute-dinner-idea/