If you love the classic flavors of caprese salad—tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil—then this Caprese Stuffed Chicken is the perfect dish for you! With a simple marinade, juicy chicken breasts, and the mouthwatering combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just want a flavorful, easy weeknight meal, this dish is simple, quick, and packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Caprese Stuffed Chicken brings together all the elements of a classic caprese salad but adds a savory twist by stuffing them into chicken breasts. The marinade infuses the chicken with a subtle, tangy flavor while the fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil melt together into a comforting, cheesy filling. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this recipe transforms a basic chicken dinner into something extraordinary. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and full of healthy protein and vegetables, making it a great option for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
Olive oil
Balsamic vinegar
Dijon mustard
Italian seasoning
Minced garlic
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Stuffing:
Roma tomatoes – halved lengthwise and thinly sliced into half-moon shapes
Fresh mozzarella – thinly sliced and cut into half-moon shapes
Fresh basil leaves
Tip: You can substitute regular sliced mozzarella or shredded mozzarella for the fresh mozzarella. Provolone cheese is also a great alternative.
(Tip: You can find a list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below)
Instructions
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Marinate the Chicken
Start by making the marinade. In a resealable plastic bag, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Add the chicken breasts and seal the bag. Toss to coat the chicken in the marinade. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor. -
Slice the Chicken
After marinating, remove the chicken from the bag and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice each chicken breast in a hasselback style, making deep slits into the chicken without cutting all the way through. This creates pockets for the filling. -
Stuff the Chicken
Once your chicken is sliced, it’s time to stuff! Take each slit and fill it with a slice of tomato, a slice of mozzarella cheese, and a basil leaf. Pack the ingredients into the chicken, ensuring they’re tightly stuffed. -
Bake the Chicken
Arrange the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking pan. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked, use an instant-read meat thermometer. Once done, remove from the oven. -
Serve and Enjoy
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, and serve with your favorite side dish, such as roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
Variations
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Add More Veggies: You can add thin slices of zucchini or bell peppers into the chicken for extra flavor and texture.
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Cheese Options: If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, you can use regular mozzarella or provolone for a different flavor.
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Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a slice of jalapeño into the stuffing.
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Stuffing Alternatives: Try adding a layer of pesto in between the chicken and cheese for a richer, herby flavor.
Heating/Storage
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Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: To reheat, simply place the chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the texture may not be as crisp.
10 FAQ
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They will have a juicier texture, and you can follow the same instructions for marinating, slicing, and stuffing.
2. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken by marinating and stuffing it ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute the mozzarella with provolone, gouda, or even cheddar, depending on your preference.
4. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
To ensure the chicken stays moist, don’t overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
5. Can I cook this recipe on the grill?
Yes! You can cook the stuffed chicken breasts on a grill instead of baking. Just be sure to cook it over medium heat and use indirect heat to prevent burning.
6. Can I use store-bought pesto in this recipe?
Yes, store-bought pesto can be used if you prefer a shortcut. It will add a burst of flavor to the chicken stuffing.
7. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in an airtight container before freezing.
8. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
9. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with a hearty vegetable, such as zucchini or eggplant, and stuff it with the same caprese ingredients for a delicious vegetarian option.
10. What should I serve with Caprese Stuffed Chicken?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of pasta. For a lighter option, serve it with quinoa or cauliflower rice.
Conclusion
Caprese Stuffed Chicken is an incredibly flavorful dish that brings together the fresh tastes of caprese salad with tender, juicy chicken. It’s easy to make, and with simple ingredients, it turns into a show-stopping meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. With variations to suit your tastes and quick reheating options, it’s a recipe worth trying! Enjoy
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Caprese Stuffed Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Caprese Stuffed Chicken recipe is a delicious, easy-to-make dinner that brings together tender chicken breasts, fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Marinated in a flavorful balsamic and Dijon mustard dressing, this chicken is stuffed with a classic Caprese filling and baked to perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or as a healthy, flavorful meal the whole family will enjoy. Ready in under an hour, this gluten-free dish is a must-try!
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
Olive oil
Balsamic vinegar
Dijon mustard
Italian seasoning
Minced garlic
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Stuffing:
Roma tomatoes – halved lengthwise and thinly sliced into half-moon shapes
Fresh mozzarella – thinly sliced and cut into half-moon shapes
Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
-
Marinate the Chicken
Start by making the marinade. In a resealable plastic bag, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Add the chicken breasts and seal the bag. Toss to coat the chicken in the marinade. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor. -
Slice the Chicken
After marinating, remove the chicken from the bag and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice each chicken breast in a hasselback style, making deep slits into the chicken without cutting all the way through. This creates pockets for the filling. -
Stuff the Chicken
Once your chicken is sliced, it’s time to stuff! Take each slit and fill it with a slice of tomato, a slice of mozzarella cheese, and a basil leaf. Pack the ingredients into the chicken, ensuring they’re tightly stuffed. -
Bake the Chicken
Arrange the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking pan. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked, use an instant-read meat thermometer. Once done, remove from the oven. -
Serve and Enjoy
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, and serve with your favorite side dish, such as roasted vegetables or a simple salad
Notes
- Add More Veggies: You can add thin slices of zucchini or bell peppers into the chicken for extra flavor and texture.
- Cheese Options: If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, you can use regular mozzarella or provolone for a different flavor.
- Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a slice of jalapeño into the stuffing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
