Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that's as delicious as it is effortless? Introducing the One Pan Caprese Chicken, a low-carb Italian masterpiece that combines juicy chicken breasts, blistered cherry tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella—all cooked in a single skillet! In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a meal that will impress your family and friends, leaving them wondering how you managed to create such culinary magic. With fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze to finish, this recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Dive into this article to discover how to make this mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This helps create a flavorful crust and ensures even seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking, which helps create a perfect golden-brown sear on the chicken.
- Place chicken breasts in the hot pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes on the first side without moving, allowing a beautiful golden-brown crust to develop. This creates delicious caramelization and locks in moisture.
- Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer for food safety.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Scatter halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the pan. Allow tomatoes to soften and slightly blister, releasing their natural sweetness.
- Top each chicken breast with fresh mozzarella balls. Cover the pan with a lid and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and slightly stretchy.
- Remove from heat. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the chicken and tomatoes, creating a glossy, tangy finish.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the dish. The heat will help release the basil's aromatic oils, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Serve directly from the pan for a rustic, appetizing presentation. Pair with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete low-carb meal.
Tips
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t skip the step of patting the chicken dry and seasoning it well with salt and pepper. This simple technique helps create a flavorful crust and ensures the chicken is seasoned throughout.
- Perfect Sear: Make sure your olive oil is hot before adding the chicken to the pan. A good sear not only enhances flavor but also locks in moisture, keeping your chicken juicy.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This guarantees safety and juiciness.
- Let the Cheese Melt: Covering the pan while the mozzarella melts is crucial. It helps the cheese become soft and stretchy, adding that delightful gooey texture we all love.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking. This step lets the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
- Serve with Style: For a rustic presentation, serve the dish straight from the pan. Pair it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables to complete your low-carb meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 110mg
