Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering masterpiece that'll make your taste buds dance with joy! This Balsamic Caprese Baked Chicken is not just a meal, it's a culinary experience that brings together the classic Italian flavors of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and tangy balsamic vinegar in one incredible, restaurant-worthy dinner. Perfect for busy home cooks who want maximum flavor with minimal effort, this recipe will become your new go-to weeknight sensation that looks and tastes like you've spent hours in the kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- Fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a large baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around and between the chicken breasts.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinegar evenly over the chicken and tomatoes, ensuring good coverage.
- Layer the fresh mozzarella slices on top of each chicken breast, covering them partially.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Garnish generously with fresh torn basil leaves just before serving.
- Serve hot, spooning the roasted tomatoes and pan juices over the chicken breasts.
Tips
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden sear and prevent soggy texture.
- Use high-quality fresh mozzarella and ripe cherry tomatoes for the most vibrant flavor profile.
- Don't skip the resting time after baking - it helps the chicken retain its juices and ensures maximum tenderness.
- For extra flavor, try marinating the chicken in balsamic vinegar for 30 minutes before baking.
- If you want a slightly crispy top, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Fresh basil is key - tear the leaves just before serving to release their maximum aromatic oils.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches exactly 165°F for perfect doneness and food safety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 110mg
