Easy Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast

Butterflying the chicken breast open creates a pocket for melty mozzarella, juicy tomato, and fresh basil, all the flavors of a Caprese salad tucked inside a single piece of meat. A quick sear before baking locks in a golden crust, and the oven finishes the job so the cheese turns properly gooey. A drizzle of balsamic glaze at the end makes it feel like a dish from a restaurant menu.

Chicken breasts stuffed with mozzarella, tomato, and basil, seared and baked until golden.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Fast: ready in about 40 minutes (10 min prep, 30 min cook)
• Simple: 10 everyday ingredients
• Feeds the family: 4 servings
• Light: about 320 calories per serving

Ingredients

• 4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts)
• 8 oz 225 g fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 2 medium tomatoes (thinly sliced)
• 8 –10 fresh basil leaves
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing horizontally without cutting all the way through, then opening them like a book.
3. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Layer 1 to 2 slices of mozzarella, 1 to 2 slices of tomato, and 2 to 3 basil leaves inside each butterflied breast.
5. Close the chicken and secure it with toothpicks to keep the filling in place.
6. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Add the stuffed chicken and sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until golden.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
10. Carefully remove the toothpicks.
11. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
12. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Cooking Tips

• Don't overfill the pocket, or the filling will push out during cooking.
• Sear the chicken well before baking for a deeper golden crust.
• Remove the toothpicks carefully before serving so no one bites down on one.

Substitutions

• Provolone can replace mozzarella.
• Sun-dried tomatoes can replace fresh tomato slices for a more intense flavor.
• Chicken thighs can replace breasts, adjusting the bake time slightly.

Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing isn't recommended, since the cheese and tomato filling change texture once thawed.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of pasta or roasted vegetables.
• Drizzle with extra balsamic glaze at the table.
• Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320 kcal

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