Savory Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast
A quick and easy homemade dinner featuring juicy chicken breasts stuffed with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil, finished with a tangy-sweet balsamic reduction.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–8 oz / 170–225 g each)
- 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or torn
- 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 12 fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the balsamic reduction: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until thickened and syrupy, about 10-15 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each pocket with fresh mozzarella slices, halved cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Press the pocket closed and secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven or move the chicken breasts to a baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted.
- Remove toothpicks if used and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
- Plate the chicken and drizzle with the balsamic reduction before serving.
Notes
If cherry tomatoes release too much water, drain them before stuffing to avoid soggy chicken. Resting the chicken after baking helps keep it juicy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Cast iron skillet recommended for best crust. Balsamic reduction can be replaced with store-bought glaze if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken br
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 40
Keywords: Caprese, stuffed chicken breast, mozzarella, balsamic reduction, easy dinner, Italian, weeknight meal