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Flavorful Caprese Stuffed Balsamic Chicken Breast

Caprese Stuffed Balsamic Chicken Breast - featured image
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Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, finished with a tangy balsamic glaze. This easy and elegant recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced or torn into small pieces
  • 2 medium Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced
  • About 12 fresh basil leaves, whole
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) balsamic vinegar (or store-bought balsamic glaze)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional, such as oregano or thyme)
  • Toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing the chicken

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place each chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a horizontal pocket into the thickest side of each breast, stopping about 1/2 inch from the edges to create a pouch without cutting all the way through.
  3. Season each chicken breast inside and out with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and dried Italian herbs if using.
  4. Stuff each chicken breast pocket with mozzarella slices, tomato slices, and fresh basil leaves. Do not overstuff. Secure the openings with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
  5. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  6. While searing, warm the balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Let it simmer gently until reduced by half and slightly syrupy, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, use store-bought balsamic glaze.
  7. Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Spoon some balsamic glaze over each breast.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the mozzarella is melted.
  9. Remove the chicken from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with remaining balsamic glaze before serving.

Notes

If chicken breasts are thick, pound gently to even thickness before stuffing for consistent cooking. Monitor balsamic glaze carefully during reduction to avoid burning. Rest chicken for 5 minutes after baking to redistribute juices. For dairy-free, omit mozzarella or substitute with vegan cheese and increase fresh herbs. Store leftovers refrigerated up to 3 days and reheat gently in oven to maintain moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese chicken, stuffed chicken breast, balsamic chicken, mozzarella chicken, easy dinner, weeknight meal, Italian chicken recipe

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/flavorful-caprese-stuffed-balsamic-chicken-breast-recipe-easy-and-perfect-for-dinner/