Caprese Chicken Skillet: A Quick and Delicious One-Pan Meal

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Caprese Chicken Skillet is a tasty and quick meal you can whip up in about 30 minutes. It combines juicy chicken with the classic flavors of caprese salad – tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. This one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have much time to cook.

You’ll love how the chicken gets cooked in a tangy balsamic sauce, then topped with melty mozzarella and fresh tomatoes. It’s an easy way to bring a bit of Italian flair to your dinner table without much fuss. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in just one skillet.

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

Here’s what you’ll need to make a tasty Caprese Chicken Skillet:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts • 1 tablespoon olive oil • Salt and pepper to taste • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved • 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

For the balsamic glaze: • ½ cup balsamic vinegar • 1 tablespoon honey

Can’t find some ingredients? Try these swaps:

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat. • Swap cherry tomatoes for diced roma tomatoes. • Replace fresh mozzarella with shredded mozzarella in a pinch. • No fresh basil? Use 1 teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning.

For a healthier version, you can use low-fat mozzarella and skip the balsamic glaze. Want extra flavor? Add minced garlic or Italian seasoning to the chicken before cooking.

Remember, you can adjust amounts based on your taste preferences or the number of people you’re serving.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, and dried oregano on both sides.

Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Lower the heat to medium and add sliced tomatoes and minced garlic to the pan.

Cook the tomatoes for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Return the chicken to the skillet and top each piece with a slice of fresh mozzarella.

Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt for about 2 minutes. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the chicken and sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top.

Serve your Caprese Chicken Skillet right away for the best flavor and texture. You can pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Want to make the best Caprese chicken skillet? Here are some handy tips:

Use fresh mozzarella for that classic Caprese flavor. It melts beautifully and tastes amazing.

Don’t overcook your chicken. Take it off the heat when it reaches 165°F (74°C) inside. This keeps it juicy and tender.

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian dressing or balsamic vinegar for 30 minutes before cooking.

Try adding fresh basil leaves right before serving. They’ll wilt slightly from the heat and release their yummy aroma.

Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for 3-4 days.

To reheat, pop the chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water to keep it moist. Heat until it’s warm all the way through.

You can also freeze Caprese chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For a quick twist, try using chicken thighs instead of breasts. They’re super flavorful and stay moist.