Juicy chicken with mozzarella, tomato, and basil, baked for a vibrant, satisfying Italian-inspired meal.
# What You'll Need:
→ Chicken
01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon salt
04 - 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
05 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
→ Filling
06 - 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
07 - 2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
08 - 12 large fresh basil leaves
→ Finishing
09 - 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
10 - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
# How-To Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
02 - Pat chicken breasts dry. With a sharp knife, cut a deep pocket into the side of each breast, without slicing completely through.
03 - Season chicken breasts inside and out with salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs.
04 - Fill each chicken breast with 1–2 mozzarella slices, 2–3 tomato slices, and 3 basil leaves. Secure with toothpicks if required.
05 - Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear stuffed chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side, achieving golden coloration.
06 - Transfer skillet to oven or place chicken in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
07 - Remove from oven; allow to rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves before serving.