This Chicken Caprese Skillet is a colorful dish bursting with fresh flavors! You’ll find juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, and fragrant basil all cooked together in one pan.
I love how quick this meal is to make. It’s like a mini Italian vacation right on your dinner table! Just cook, eat, and enjoy without a lot of cleanup! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a lean choice here. You can substitute them with chicken thighs if you prefer more flavor and juiciness.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy, making them perfect for this dish. If they’re not available, diced regular tomatoes can work too, but you might want to adjust cooking times.
Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded fresh mozzarella gives that lovely gooey texture. If you can’t find it, shredded mozzarella cheese or even provolone can be good substitutes.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a tangy flavor. If you don’t have balsamic, a splash of red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can do the trick, though it will taste slightly different.
Basil Leaves: Fresh basil really brightens this dish. If it’s not in season, consider using a sprinkle of dried basil instead, but use less since dried herbs are more potent.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Golden Brown?
Cooking chicken perfectly is all about technique. Start by seasoning both sides with salt and pepper first. This adds lots of flavor. Heat your skillet on medium-high and make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken.
- Sear each side for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Avoid moving the chicken around too much, as this helps it get that nice crust.
- Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking in the skillet to keep it juicy before serving.
How to Make Chicken Caprese Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
For Garnishing:
- Fresh basil leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Caprese Skillet takes about 15 minutes of preparation and another 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes to whip up this delicious dish. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. Make sure they are nicely coated so they have great flavor when cooked.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and have a lovely golden-brown crust. Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Preparing the Sauce:
In the same skillet, now filled with all those delicious flavors, add the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic. Cook them together for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
4. Adding the Flavor:
Next, stir in the balsamic vinegar and dried oregano. Mix everything together well, enjoying the wonderful aroma as it cooks.
5. Combining Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them among the tomatoes. Now, it’s time to sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken. This cheese is going to melt beautifully!
6. Melting the Cheese:
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for another 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly. Yum!
7. Garnishing and Serving:
Finally, garnish your Chicken Caprese Skillet with fresh basil leaves for a touch of freshness. Serve it hot and enjoy this tasty dish!
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Caprese Skillet!
Can I Use Bone-in Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in chicken will typically take longer to cook—about 15-20 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Make sure to cover the skillet to help the chicken cook through evenly.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Mozzarella?
If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, you can use shredded mozzarella or even provolone cheese as a tasty substitute. Just be mindful that this may slightly change the flavor and texture of the dish, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and tomatoes in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. Cover the pan to help the cheese melt again!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just sauté them along with the tomatoes and garlic to incorporate more flavors and nutrients into your Chicken Caprese Skillet.
