Name: Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella; 2 tomatoes; 4 fresh basil leaves; balsamic glaze; olive oil; salt and pepper

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Bursting with flavors and textures, this dish is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

The star of this recipe is the juicy and tender chicken breast, stuffed with a mouthwatering combination of fresh mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant basil. With each bite, you’ll experience the creamy cheese, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, all wrapped in succulent chicken.

Not only is this dish incredibly flavorful, but it’s also surprisingly easy to prepare. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a gourmet-worthy meal that will have your guests asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe is a winner. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress with this irresistible dish.

Ingredients and Preparation

To prepare this delicious caprese stuffed chicken breast, you’ll need to gather some fresh ingredients and follow a few simple steps. Start by gathering boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh mozzarella cheese, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, balsamic glaze, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut a pocket into each chicken breast and season them with salt and pepper. Stuff each pocket with slices of mozzarella cheese, tomato slices, and fresh basil leaves. Use toothpicks to secure the pockets closed. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 2 minutes on each side. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish!

Stuffing the Chicken Breast

Start by carefully slicing open the succulent chicken breast, revealing its tender center ready to be filled with a mouthwatering surprise. Lay the chicken breast flat on a cutting board and make a horizontal cut about three-quarters of the way through, being careful not to cut all the way through. This will create a pocket for the stuffing. Season the inside of the chicken breast with salt and pepper. Next, generously stuff the pocket with fresh mozzarella cheese, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves. The combination of these ingredients will create a delicious caprese filling. Finally, use toothpicks to secure the opening of the chicken breast, ensuring that the stuffing remains intact during cooking. Now, you’re ready to move on to the next step of the recipe, which is cooking the stuffed chicken breast to perfection.

Cooking the Chicken Breast

Now it’s time to cook your juicy chicken breast until it is perfectly tender and golden brown. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet, allowing them to cook undisturbed for about 6 minutes, or until the bottom is nicely browned. Flip the chicken breasts and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let the chicken cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This will ensure that the chicken is fully cooked and juicy. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve your caprese stuffed chicken breast with a side of your choice and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

After letting the chicken rest, it is time to plate your delicious creation and pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal. The caprese stuffed chicken breast can be served as the main course alongside a variety of sides. One great option is to serve it with a fresh green salad, drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette dressing to complement the flavors of the caprese filling. Another idea is to serve it with roasted vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers. The roasted vegetables add a nice touch of color and texture to the plate. Additionally, you can also serve the chicken with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or a simple pasta dish. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and tailor the sides to your personal preferences.

Tips and Variations

Enhance your culinary masterpiece with these helpful tips and exciting variations to take your dish to the next level. When making caprese stuffed chicken breast, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, butterfly the chicken breast to create a pocket for the filling. This ensures that the flavors of the caprese salad perfectly infuse into the chicken. Additionally, season the chicken with salt and pepper before stuffing it to enhance the overall taste. For a twist, you can try adding sliced avocado to the caprese filling, adding a creamy and rich element to the dish. Another variation is to use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone, to experiment with different flavors. Finally, for a tangy kick, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the stuffed chicken breast before serving. These tips and variations will elevate your caprese stuffed chicken breast to a whole new level.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella for the stuffing?

Yes, you can use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella for the stuffing. Feel free to experiment with cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even goat cheese to add your own twist to the recipe.

How long does it take to cook the chicken breast if I want it well done?

If you want the chicken breast well done, it will take about 25-30 minutes to cook. It’s important to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator?

Yes, it is possible to make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply prepare the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Can I substitute the cherry tomatoes with regular tomatoes?

Yes, you can substitute regular tomatoes for cherry tomatoes in this recipe. They will still provide a fresh and juicy flavor to complement the other ingredients in the dish.

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe. They will provide a slightly different texture and flavor, but it should still turn out delicious.