Caprese Stuffed Chicken

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both elegant and comforting, then look no further than this delightful Caprese Stuffed Chicken. Picture juicy chicken breasts perfectly marinated and stuffed with fresh mozzarella, bright tomato slices, and fragrant basil. It’s a dish that brings the flavors of summer straight to your dinner table, making it an instant favorite in our home.

This recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve at family gatherings. Plus, it’s easy enough that even the busiest among us can whip it up without breaking a sweat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time and simple steps, you can have this dish ready in no time.
• Crowd-pleaser: The combination of flavors makes it appealing to everyone—from kids to adults!
• Healthy yet hearty: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this meal is both nourishing and satisfying.
• Make-ahead friendly: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for an even easier dinner when you’re busy.
• Gorgeous presentation: The colorful layers make for a beautiful dish that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Caprese Stuffed Chicken is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Marinade

• 1/3 cup Olive oil
• 1/4 cup Balsamic vinegar (plus more for drizzle after baking)
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Pepper

For the Chicken

• 4 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (trimmed, approx. 6-8 ounces each)
• 2 Medium Roma tomatoes (halved lengthwise then thinly sliced to make half-moon shape slices)
• 8 ounces Fresh mozzarella (sliced thin, then cut in half to make half-moon shape slices)
• 1 cup Large basil leaves (cut in half, plus more for garnish if desired)
• Balsamic glaze for garnish (optional)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or even stuffed portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the cheese: If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, you can use provolone or goat cheese instead.
• Add some spice: For a little kick, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or add jalapeño slices.
• Mix in veggies: Add spinach or roasted red peppers into the stuffing for extra flavor and color.

How to Make Caprese Stuffed Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients until well combined. This step is essential because marinating infuses the chicken with flavor and keeps it moist during cooking. Place your chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring every piece is coated. Don’t rush this step; let it sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour—or better yet—up to 24 hours!

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400℉. This high temperature helps create a delicious golden crust on your stuffed chicken while keeping the inside juicy.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

Lay each chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to make deep cuts across the top of each breast—about ½ inch apart but be careful not to cut all the way through! This hasselback style creates pockets for filling and ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Stuff with Goodness

Now comes the fun part! Fill each cut with slices of tomato, mozzarella, and basil leaves. This colorful filling not only tastes divine but also looks stunning when served.

Step 5: Bake!

Place your stuffed chicken on a prepared baking sheet and pop it in the oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until an instant-read thermometer shows that they’ve reached 165℉ at their thickest part.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

After baking, let your beautiful Caprese Stuffed Chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired and garnish with extra chopped basil for that restaurant-worthy presentation. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Caprese Stuffed Chicken

Making Caprese Stuffed Chicken can be a delightful experience, especially with these handy tips!

• Marinate Longer for Flavor: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 1 hour, but if you can let it sit overnight, you’ll unlock even deeper flavors.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for the freshest mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil you can find. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the taste but also provide a vibrant presentation that’s sure to impress.

• Don’t Overstuff: While it may be tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, overstuffing can lead to uneven cooking. Keep it balanced for perfectly cooked chicken every time.

• Check Internal Temperature: Always use an instant-read thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165℉. This guarantees safety and optimal juiciness.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and tender.

How to Serve Caprese Stuffed Chicken

Serving Caprese Stuffed Chicken is all about presentation and complementing flavors. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A sprinkle of whole basil leaves on top adds color and reinforces the fresh basil flavor of the dish.
• Balsamic Drizzle: A light drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top not only adds visual appeal but also an extra layer of sweetness and acidity that balances beautifully with the chicken.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots tossed in olive oil and garlic is a perfect side. The roasted veggies provide a colorful contrast and complement the Italian flavors.

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a squeeze of lemon is light yet satisfying. It pairs well with the richness of the stuffed chicken.

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These add a fun crunch and natural sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory chicken. Plus, they’re always a crowd-pleaser!

• Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous with herbs like parsley or cilantro brings a light texture that balances out your meal wonderfully while soaking up any delicious juices from the chicken.

With these serving suggestions, your Caprese Stuffed Chicken will not only taste fantastic but also look like a gourmet meal right out of an Italian kitchen! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Caprese Stuffed Chicken is not only a delightful dish for dinner but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily make this recipe ahead of time, enjoy leftovers, or freeze portions for later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken in an airtight container.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap each stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat chicken in a preheated oven at 350℉ until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual pieces on medium power until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Caprese Stuffed Chicken that may help you while preparing this delicious dish.

Can I use other types of cheese for Caprese Stuffed Chicken?

Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella provides a wonderful creamy texture, you can substitute with provolone or even goat cheese if desired.

How do I ensure my Caprese Stuffed Chicken stays juicy?

Marinating the chicken not only enhances flavor but also keeps it moist. Be sure to avoid overcooking; use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165℉.

Can I make Caprese Stuffed Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can marinate and stuff the chicken earlier in the day or even freeze it for later cooking.

What sides pair well with Caprese Stuffed Chicken?

Serve with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to complement this flavorful dish beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Caprese Stuffed Chicken! It’s a favorite in my home because it combines simplicity with vibrant flavors that everyone loves. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is bound to impress. Enjoy your culinary adventure and don’t hesitate to share your creations!