Imagine a sizzling skillet straight from the oven, packed with golden-crusted chicken, melting mozzarella, and vibrant roasted tomatoes that'll make your taste buds dance with joy! This Baked Chicken Caprese Skillet isn't just a meal - it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece you can easily create in your own kitchen. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this irresistible Italian-inspired dish that combines classic Caprese flavors with perfectly cooked chicken.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts
- Fresh mozzarella
- Tomatoes
- Fresh basil
- Balsamic glaze
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet.
- Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms, creating a nice caramelization.
- Slice fresh tomatoes into thick rounds and arrange them around the chicken in the skillet.
- Cut fresh mozzarella into slices and place them on top of each chicken breast, covering the surface evenly.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves and drizzle balsamic glaze over the chicken and tomatoes.
- Serve hot directly from the skillet, ensuring each serving gets a chicken breast, melted mozzarella, and roasted tomatoes.
Tips
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry before seasoning to ensure a beautiful golden-brown sear.
- Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and proper searing.
- Choose fresh, ripe tomatoes and high-quality fresh mozzarella for maximum flavor.
- Invest in a good instant-read meat thermometer to check chicken doneness accurately.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
- For an extra flavor boost, use fresh basil leaves and a high-quality balsamic glaze.
- Choose an oven-safe skillet to make the cooking process seamless and reduce cleanup.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet - this ensures even cooking and perfect caramelization.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
