This skillet meal is a fresh, fast, and flavorful way to enjoy a satisfying dinner. It combines tender, pan-seared chicken with a balsamic glaze and classic Caprese ingredients—mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil—for a meal that looks and tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant. Ready in about 30 minutes and made in one pan, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, yet impressive enough for guests.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Olive oil
Fresh mozzarella slices
Fresh tomatoes (Roma or cherry tomatoes)
Fresh basil leaves
Balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
Italian seasoning (optional)
Directions
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken breasts for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and toss in sliced tomatoes. Cook for 2–3 minutes until they soften slightly.
Return the chicken to the skillet and top each piece with fresh mozzarella slices.
Cover the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Drizzle with balsamic vinegar or glaze and sprinkle with fresh basil just before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Total time is about 30 minutes: 10 minutes prep, 20 minutes cooking.
Variations
Add pasta: Serve the chicken and tomatoes over pasta or zucchini noodles for a more filling dish.
Use thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless chicken thighs for a juicier result.
Grilled version: Grill the chicken and assemble with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil off the heat.
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes to the seasoning or balsamic glaze for heat.
Low-carb: Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables instead of starches.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. To refresh the flavors, add a little extra balsamic glaze or a few fresh basil leaves before serving.
FAQs
What is Chicken Caprese?
It’s a spin on the classic Caprese salad, combining grilled or pan-seared chicken with tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is best for flavor and presentation, but dried basil can be used in a pinch—add it with the seasonings.
Do I have to use balsamic glaze?
No, but it adds a sweet-tart finish. You can reduce regular balsamic vinegar over heat until thickened if glaze isn’t available.
What kind of tomatoes work best?
Cherry, grape, or Roma tomatoes all work well. Use what’s fresh and in season for the best flavor.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and slice the ingredients ahead, but it’s best served fresh to enjoy the melted mozzarella and bright basil.
How do I keep the chicken moist?
Don’t overcook it—use a thermometer to check for 165°F internal temperature. Let the chicken rest briefly before slicing.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, the basic recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any store-bought balsamic glaze.
Can I bake this instead?
Yes. Sear the chicken first, then transfer to an oven-safe dish with tomatoes and mozzarella. Bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes until cheese is melted.
What can I serve with Chicken Caprese Skillet?
Great sides include garlic bread, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a light green salad.
Can I use shredded mozzarella?
Fresh mozzarella slices melt better and give the best texture, but shredded mozzarella can work in a pinch.
Conclusion
Chicken Caprese Skillet is a flavorful, fresh, and easy dinner option that’s ready in just one pan. With its blend of juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and sweet balsamic, it’s a dish that feels special without being complicated. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals, this recipe brings the taste of Italy straight to your table.
Chicken Caprese Skillet is a one-pan, Italian-inspired meal that combines juicy chicken breasts with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a balsamic drizzle. Simple yet elegant, it’s ready in 30 minutes and packed with vibrant flavor.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Skillet
Cuisine:Italian-Inspired
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
2 cups cherry tomatoes or 3 Roma tomatoes, sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Instructions
Season chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté the sliced tomatoes for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
Return chicken to skillet and top each piece with mozzarella slices.
Cover and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Drizzle with balsamic vinegar or glaze and sprinkle with fresh basil just before serving.
Notes
Use boneless thighs for a juicier alternative to chicken breasts.Add red pepper flakes for a spicy variation.Grill the chicken instead of pan-searing for a smokier flavor.Pair with pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.If you don’t have balsamic glaze, simmer balsamic vinegar until thickened.
