Baked Chicken Caprese

Name: Baked Chicken Caprese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves; 3 tbsp balsamic glaze; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: September 9, 2025

by samuel cullingham

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Baked Chicken Caprese is not only easy to prepare but also delivers fantastic flavors that will wow your guests
Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning, creating an Instagram-worthy dish
This recipe is versatile enough to serve with pasta or salad, making it perfect for any occasion
The combination of fresh ingredients guarantees a delicious feast every time

I still remember the time I made this for my friends, and they couldn’t stop raving about it. One even went home with leftovers—unheard of!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for high-quality mozzarella; it melts beautifully and adds creaminess.
Cherry Tomatoes: Pick vibrant, sweet cherry tomatoes for the best flavor burst in every bite.
Fresh Basil Leaves: Use fragrant basil leaves; they add freshness and depth to the dish.
Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle brings a tangy sweetness that elevates the entire recipe.
Olive Oil: Choose extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor; it’s perfect for roasting.
Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget these staples; they enhance all the other flavors beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, grab a baking dish and lightly coat it with nonstick cooking spray.

Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. For added flavor, rub them down with olive oil before placing them in the baking dish.

Add the tomatoes: Scatter halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the baking dish. Their sweet juices will mingle with the chicken as they bake.

Top with cheese: Slice fresh mozzarella and lay those gooey pieces on top of each chicken breast. The more cheese, the merrier—I always say!

Drizzle with balsamic glaze: Finish off by drizzling balsamic glaze over everything. This brings a delightful tanginess that cuts through all that richness.

Bake to perfection: Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma wafting through your home will be heavenly!

After letting it rest: Once baked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves right before diving in—voila! Dinner is served!

You Must Know

Baked Chicken Caprese is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil
The aroma alone will make your kitchen feel like an Italian bistro, and your family will think you’re a gourmet chef!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavor. Bake the chicken, then add mozzarella and tomatoes for the last few minutes to create a melty topping.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out mozzarella for burrata or add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra zing. Fresh herbs also work wonders in elevating flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, preserving the dish’s deliciousness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly juicy chicken, use a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F internal temperature
Don’t skip the marination time; it deeply enhances flavor
Lastly, let it rest before slicing; this keeps all those tasty juices inside

I remember the first time I cooked Baked Chicken Caprese for my family. They were so impressed that my dad almost offered me his secret recipe collection as a bribe!

FAQ

What can I serve with Baked Chicken Caprese?

Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread to complete your meal.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw it completely before marinating and baking for best results.

How long does leftover Baked Chicken Caprese last?

Leftovers can last up to three days in the refrigerator when stored properly.