Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast (Printable version)

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.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • It's secretly easier than it looks, and feels restaurant-worthy every time.
  • The chicken stays juicy, and that burst of tomato and basil feels just like summer on your fork.
02 -
  • If you cut the pocket too thin, fillings spill out during searing—use a gentle touch and patience.
  • Searing isn't just for color; it locks in juices and builds flavor, don't skip it even if you're in a rush.
03 -
  • Let the mozzarella come to room temperature—cold cheese doesn't melt as nicely inside the chicken.
  • Save any pan juices after baking and drizzle them over or use them to toss with a side salad.
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