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Juicy Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast

Caprese stuffed chicken breast - featured image
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A quick and easy 30-minute dinner featuring juicy chicken breasts stuffed with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, delivering a delicious Italian-inspired meal perfect for weeknights or dinner parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz / 170 g each)
  • 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or torn into small pieces
  • 2 medium ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced (Roma or vine-ripened)
  • 12–16 fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, thyme, and rosemary)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling at the end)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice horizontally through the thickest part of each breast to create a pocket without cutting all the way through.
  2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Brush or rub this mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts and inside the pockets.
  3. Layer mozzarella cheese, tomato slices, and fresh basil leaves inside each pocket. Do not overstuff. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
  4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then place the stuffed chicken breasts seam side down. Cook for 5-6 minutes without moving to get a golden crust.
  5. Flip carefully and cover with a lid. Lower heat to medium-low and cook another 8-10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
  6. Remove chicken from pan and let rest for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks if used. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with extra basil leaves before serving.

Notes

Pound chicken breasts lightly for even thickness if needed. Do not overstuff to prevent cheese leakage. Use toothpicks to secure pockets. Cook on medium heat to avoid burning. Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving. Can bake at 375°F (190°C) covered with foil for 25 minutes as an alternative cooking method.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese, stuffed chicken, mozzarella, basil, tomatoes, easy dinner, quick recipe, Italian, weeknight meal, gluten-free

Find it online: https://sparklechew.com/juicy-caprese-stuffed-chicken-breast-recipe-easy-30-minute-dinner-idea/