If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors yet super simple to make, this Easy Chicken Caprese Recipe is your new go-to. Picture tender chicken breasts topped with melty mozzarella, juicy tomato slices, and vibrant basil, all brought together by a luscious balsamic glaze. It’s a beautiful, light dish that manages to feel special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe brings comfort and elegance to your table effortlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Chicken Caprese Recipe lies in its straightforward, fresh ingredients that each play a crucial role in flavor, texture, and color. These essentials come together to create a dish that’s as delightful to the eye as it is to the palate.
- 2 large chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise): Using thinner pieces ensures quick, even cooking and juicy results.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory depth that enhances the chicken’s flavor without overpowering it.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning, bring out the natural flavors of every ingredient.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to achieve a beautiful sear on the chicken and adds richness.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth: Creates a flavorful base for wilting the spinach and deglazing the pan.
- 3 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach: Adds a healthy, tender green layer that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey, creamy topping that is utterly irresistible.
- 2 medium tomatoes (sliced): Fresh and juicy slices provide a perfect contrast to the creamy cheese.
- 2 tablespoons torn fresh basil (or more, to taste): Infuses an aromatic herbal brightness that makes this dish sing.
- Balsamic glaze (to taste): A sweet and tangy finishing touch that ties every element together beautifully.
How to Make Easy Chicken Caprese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your oven and chicken
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and arrange the rack in the upper third of the oven so the cheese gets that perfect golden finish. While it’s warming, cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces that will cook quickly and evenly.
Step 2: Season the chicken
Generously sprinkle both sides of each chicken piece with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoning layer is the foundation for all the wonderful flavors that will develop as the dish cooks.
Step 3: Sear the chicken
Heat olive oil in an oven-proof skillet until shimmering hot. Add the chicken pieces and cook them for about 4-5 minutes per side. Aim for a golden crust but don’t worry if the chicken isn’t fully cooked through yet—it will finish in the oven, preserving juiciness and tenderness.
Step 4: Wilt the spinach and deglaze
Remove the chicken and set it aside for a moment. Pour chicken broth into the same skillet, scraping the bottom to lift any browned bits full of flavor. Toss in the fresh spinach and stir for about a minute until it just starts to wilt, soaking in all those delicious juices.
Step 5: Assemble the dish
Turn off the heat and nestle the chicken pieces back on top of the spinach in the skillet. Then, generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over each piece so that it melts into a rich, creamy layer.
Step 6: Bake and broil to perfection
Pop the skillet into your preheated oven for 5 minutes to let the chicken finish cooking and the cheese melt. Then switch the oven to broil and watch carefully as the cheese browns lightly and develops a beautiful bubbly crust. If you prefer, simply bake for 6-8 minutes until the cheese melts and chicken is cooked through, but keep a close eye to avoid drying it out.
Step 7: Add fresh toppings
Once out of the oven, immediately top the chicken pieces with fresh tomato slices and torn basil leaves. Drizzle each piece with a teaspoon or so of balsamic glaze for that perfect sweet-tart finish. Serve right away, spooning the spinach and flavorful pan juices alongside. Give a final seasoning touch of salt and pepper if needed.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Caprese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze aren’t just for flavor—they also make the dish look stunning. You can add an extra sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a handful of chopped fresh parsley to amp up the presentation and taste even further.
Side Dishes
This Easy Chicken Caprese Recipe pairs beautifully with light, complementary sides like garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or simple roasted potatoes. For a low-carb option, serve it alongside cauliflower rice or sautéed zucchini noodles to keep the focus on the vibrant flavors of the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish family-style right in the oven-safe skillet—it makes for a cozy, rustic presentation. Alternatively, plate each chicken piece atop a bed of creamy polenta or risotto to create a restaurant-worthy meal that’s full of color and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken caprese in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to marry, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for that melty cheese and vibrant basil.
Freezing
While freezing fresh caprese isn’t ideal because tomatoes and basil lose their texture, you can freeze the cooked chicken and spinach separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Reheat gently before assembling with fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken and spinach in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at a low temperature. Add fresh tomato slices and basil after reheating, and finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze to brighten everything back up.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and can add even more juicy flavor. Just adjust cooking time slightly since thighs are a bit thicker and fattier.
Is fresh mozzarella better than shredded?
Fresh mozzarella will give you a creamier, gooier melt with a slightly different texture, but shredded mozzarella is easier to sprinkle evenly and melts nicely for this dish. Either works, so go with your preference!
How do I make my balsamic glaze at home?
Simmer balsamic vinegar on low until it reduces by half and thickens into a syrup. This homemade version is tangy and sweet and perfect for drizzling on your Easy Chicken Caprese Recipe.
Can I prepare any parts ahead of time?
You can season the chicken in advance and slice the tomatoes and basil. However, for the best flavor and texture, assemble and bake just before serving.
What if I don’t have an oven-proof skillet?
No problem! Sear the chicken in a regular skillet and then transfer to a baking dish for finishing in the oven with the cheese and toppings.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Caprese Recipe has quickly become one of my favorites because it combines simplicity with bold, fresh flavors in such a satisfying way. I can’t recommend it enough for those nights when you want a delicious meal that feels special but doesn’t take hours. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a staple in your cooking rotation—you won’t regret it!
Print
Easy Chicken Caprese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Easy Chicken Caprese is a delicious, low-effort dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with melted mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and basil, finished with a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze. Cooked using a combination of stovetop searing and oven baking, this vibrant meal combines fresh ingredients for a flavorful and satisfying dinner perfect for any weeknight.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 large chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables & Cheese
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 3 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 medium tomatoes (sliced)
- 2 tablespoons torn fresh basil (or more, to taste)
- Balsamic glaze (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and position the rack in the top third of the oven to prepare for finishing the chicken with cheese.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise so you have 4 thinner pieces. Season both sides generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the chicken pieces and sear for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden but not completely cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside on a plate.
- Wilt Spinach: Add chicken broth to the skillet and scrape up any browned bits. Add the fresh baby spinach and toss for about a minute until just wilted.
- Assemble in Skillet: Turn off the heat and place the chicken on top of the spinach in the skillet.
- Add Cheese: Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over each piece of chicken.
- Bake and Broil: Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 5 minutes. Then, broil for a few minutes until the cheese is lightly browned, watching carefully to avoid burning. Alternatively, if not broiling, bake for 6-8 minutes until cheese melts and chicken cooks through.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven. Top each chicken piece with tomato slices, torn fresh basil, and drizzle balsamic glaze generously (about a teaspoon per piece). Serve immediately with the spinach and pan juices. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Notes
- Use an oven-proof skillet for easy transition from stovetop to oven.
- Do not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Balsamic glaze adds sweetness and acidity; adjust the amount according to your taste.
- Fresh basil is key for authentic Caprese flavor, but you can substitute with dried basil if necessary.
- For a low-fat version, reduce the olive oil or use cooking spray and part-skim mozzarella.
