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Chicken Caprese with Balsamic Reduction Recipe

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4.1 from 80 reviews

This Chicken Caprese with Balsamic Reduction recipe features tender seared chicken breasts topped with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil, finished with a tangy and sweet balsamic glaze. The dish combines simple, fresh ingredients with an elegant balsamic sauce, baked to perfection for a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 4 boneless chicken breasts
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil

Balsamic Sauce

  • 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Toppings

  • 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes (1 cup whole, 1/2 cup halved)
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil, chiffonade
  • 4 oz. fresh mozzarella, sliced into 1/4-inch slices

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the chicken after searing.
  2. Prepare the Balsamic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified. Reserve 2 tablespoons of this mixture separately for finishing the dish later.
  3. Season the Chicken: Lightly season both sides of the boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the avocado oil, then place the chicken breasts in the pan. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Add Tomatoes and Sauce: Add 1 cup whole cherry tomatoes to the skillet along with the chicken. Pour the prepared balsamic sauce evenly over the chicken and tomatoes.
  6. Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven, uncovered, and bake for 20 minutes to cook the chicken through and allow flavors to blend.
  7. Add Mozzarella Cheese: Remove the skillet from the oven and top each chicken breast with slices of fresh mozzarella cheese.
  8. Finish Baking: Return the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the mozzarella is melted.
  9. Prepare Tomato Garnish: While the chicken finishes baking, slice the remaining 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes in half for garnish.
  10. Assemble and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven, top with the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh basil chiffonade, and drizzle with the reserved 2 tablespoons of balsamic sauce for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

  • Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee it’s fully cooked.
  • The balsamic sauce can be adjusted for sweetness or acidity by adding more honey or vinegar to taste.
  • Fresh mozzarella slices should be about 1/4 inch thick to melt nicely over the chicken without overpowering it.
  • If you do not have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the seared chicken and sauce to a baking dish before placing in the oven.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a light green salad.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Low Salt