Description
A delicious Italian-inspired Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe featuring tender chicken breasts filled with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves. Searing the chicken in a skillet locks in the flavors, followed by oven baking to juicy perfection. Finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy touch, this gluten-free and low-carb main course is perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Filling
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (plus more for serving, optional)
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, ensuring not to cut all the way through. Season the chicken on both sides and inside the pocket with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Stuff the Chicken: Place a few slices of fresh mozzarella, tomato, and fresh basil leaves inside each chicken pocket. Secure the opening with toothpicks or tie with kitchen twine to keep the filling intact during cooking.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté briefly, allowing the aroma to infuse the oil without burning the garlic.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven carefully. Drizzle the baked chicken breasts with additional balsamic glaze if desired. Remove toothpicks or twine before serving.
Notes
- Serve with roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- For a smokier flavor, try grilling the stuffed chicken breasts instead of baking.
- Make sure not to overstuff the chicken pockets to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
- Use an oven-safe skillet to avoid transferring the chicken to another dish for baking.
