Name: Baked Chicken Caprese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup pesto sauce; 1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil

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Baked Chicken Caprese is a simple yet delicious dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your dinner table. This recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and vibrant pesto sauce, creating a meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you are cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves flavorful, wholesome meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Baked Chicken Caprese is not only easy to make, but it also uses fresh ingredients that provide great taste and nutrition. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal that reduces cleanup time. You can enjoy a taste of Italy at home with minimal effort!

How to Make Baked Chicken Caprese

Ingredients:

2 chicken breasts
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup pesto sauce
1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
Top each chicken breast with mozzarella cheese and diced tomatoes.
Drizzle pesto sauce over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly.
Serve hot.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Caprese

Serve Baked Chicken Caprese hot from the oven, accompanied by a simple side salad or garlic bread. The fresh flavors and cheesy goodness make it a perfect meal for any occasion. You can also garnish it with fresh basil for an added touch of flavor and presentation.

How to Store Baked Chicken Caprese

If you have leftovers, store Baked Chicken Caprese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Baked Chicken Caprese

Make sure not to overcook the chicken. It should be juicy and tender.
For extra flavor, consider adding some sliced olives or a sprinkle of Italian herbs.
Experiment with different types of cheese, like provolone or feta, for a twist on the classic recipe.

Variation

You can easily modify this recipe to suit your taste. For a lower-carb version, substitute the chicken with zucchini boats or eggplant slices. For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes to the pesto sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to fully thaw them before cooking.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

3. What can I serve with Baked Chicken Caprese?
It’s great with a side salad, pasta, or garlic bread. You can choose any side that complements the fresh flavors of the chicken.