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Quick 15-Minute Caprese Chicken with Balsamic Glaze

quick 15-minute caprese chicken - featured image
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A fast and flavorful Caprese chicken recipe featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and a sweet balsamic glaze, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g), pounded to even thickness
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 oz (115 g) fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • 2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) balsamic glaze
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)

Instructions

  1. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm).
  2. Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs if using.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  4. Place chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving them until a golden brown crust forms. Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes on the second side until cooked through and juices run clear (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
  5. Reduce heat to low. Place sliced mozzarella and tomato over each chicken breast. Cover the pan with a lid or foil and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted but not runny.
  6. While the cheese melts, warm the balsamic glaze in a small saucepan over low heat for 1-2 minutes to thicken slightly and enhance sweetness.
  7. Transfer chicken to plates, spoon warm balsamic glaze generously over the top, and scatter fresh basil leaves for garnish.

Notes

Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures quick and even cooking. Let the chicken sear undisturbed to develop a golden crust. Warm the balsamic glaze gently to thicken and intensify sweetness. If glaze is too runny, simmer longer off heat. For dairy-free, substitute mozzarella with avocado or vegan cheese. This recipe is naturally gluten-free but check balsamic glaze labels to avoid gluten additives. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge and reheat gently to avoid drying out.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese chicken, quick dinner, balsamic glaze, mozzarella, basil, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, gluten-free, low-carb

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/quick-15-minute-caprese-chicken-recipe-perfect-for-easy-dinners/