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Baked Caprese Chicken – Simple, Fresh, and Flavorful

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (4 small or 2 large, about 1.5–2 pounds total)
  • Olive oil (extra-virgin preferred)
  • Fresh garlic (2–3 cloves)
  • Cherry or grape tomatoes (2 cups) or 2 medium Roma tomatoes, sliced
  • Fresh mozzarella (8 ounces; sliced)
  • Fresh basil (a small handful of leaves)
  • Balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar (for reducing)
  • Italian seasoning (or dried oregano + dried basil)
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Lemon (optional, for a squeeze of brightness)

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line a sheet pan with parchment.
  2. Even out the chicken: If your chicken breasts are thick on one end, pound them to an even 3/4–1 inch thickness. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
  3. Season well: Pat the chicken dry. Rub with 1–2 tablespoons olive oil, then season both sides with 1–1.5 teaspoons salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like mild heat.
  4. Add garlic and tomatoes: Mince 2–3 cloves of garlic and scatter them over the chicken. Add cherry tomatoes to the pan, drizzle with a little more oil, and season the tomatoes with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  5. Bake the chicken: Bake for 15–18 minutes, depending on thickness. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 160°F before topping (it will rise to 165°F as it rests).
  6. Top with mozzarella: Remove the pan, top each breast with 1–2 slices of fresh mozzarella, and return to the oven. Bake another 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted and the chicken hits 165°F at the thickest part.
  7. Add basil and balsamic: Let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes. Tear or slice fresh basil over the top. Drizzle with balsamic glaze. If using balsamic vinegar, reduce 1/3 cup in a small pan over medium heat until syrupy, then drizzle.
  8. Finish and serve: Taste a tomato and adjust salt as needed. Add a light squeeze of lemon for brightness if you’d like. Serve with your favorite side.