In the realm of home cooking, chicken recipes reign supreme for their versatility, ease, and ability to please a wide range of palates. However, it’s easy to fall into a rut, preparing the same chicken dishes repeatedly. If you’re looking to elevate your chicken dinner with minimal fuss and maximum flavor, this Balsamic Glazed Chicken Caprese recipe is your ticket to a delightful meal that feels gourmet yet is simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness for uniform cooking.
- 2 Tbsp. avocado oil, a healthier cooking oil option with a high smoke point, perfect for searing.
- Kosher salt and fresh black pepper, to season the chicken to your liking.
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar, the star of the glaze, offering a tangy and sweet flavor.
- 2 Tbsp. honey, to add a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity of the vinegar.
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil, for a smooth and rich base in the balsamic glaze.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced, adding a punch of flavor to the glaze.
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning, for that herby background note.
- 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard, to emulsify and add depth to the glaze.
- 8 oz. grape tomatoes, halved, adding freshness and a burst of color.
- 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls, halved, for creamy, melty goodness.
- 2 Tbsp. fresh basil, chopped, for a bright, herby finish.
Directions:
- Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the oven is ready for your skillet as soon as the stovetop part of the recipe is completed.
- Make the Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Season this mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. The glaze should have a balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
- Toss the Toppings: In a separate bowl, combine the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Add a light seasoning of salt and pepper. This mixture will top the chicken, providing a fresh, Caprese salad-like finish.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the avocado oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the skillet is hot, sear the chicken for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. This step is crucial for locking in the juices and adding a layer of texture.
- Add the Glaze: Pour the prepared balsamic glaze over the seared chicken in the skillet. Allow it to come to a simmer, using a spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These bits add incredible flavor to the dish.
- Bake: Remove the skillet from the heat, and carefully top the chicken with the tomato and mozzarella mixture. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven, and bake for 18-23 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest: After baking, let the chicken rest in the skillet for about 5 minutes before serving. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that each bite is succulent and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions:
This dish is a showstopper on its own, but you can make it a meal by serving it alongside a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or over a bed of cooked pasta or quinoa. The balsamic glaze and juicy tomatoes create a sauce-like component that’s delicious when soaked up with a side of crusty bread.
Nutritional Information:
Each serving of this Balsamic Glazed Chicken Caprese is approximately 380 kcal, making it a satisfying yet healthy option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Conclusion:
Elevate your dinner game with this Balsamic Glazed Chicken Caprese recipe. It combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with the hearty satisfaction of baked chicken, all unified by a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cook time of 30 minutes, this dish is both easy and impressive, perfect for a weeknight treat or a special occasion. Enjoy the harmony of flavors and the joy of a meal well made.
One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Ingredients:
2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
2 Tbsp. avocado oil
Kosher salt and fresh black pepper to taste
1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
2 Tbsp. honey
2 Tbsp. olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
8 oz. grape tomatoes, halved
8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls, halved
2 Tbsp. fresh basil, chopped
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400°F. In a bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper.
In another bowl, toss halved tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
Heat avocado oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high. Season chicken with salt and pepper, and sear each side for 1-2 minutes until golden.
Pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken in the skillet, bringing it to a simmer while scraping up any brown bits.
Remove from heat, top with tomato and mozzarella mixture. Bake for 18-23 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 45 mins | Servings: 4-6 | Kcal: 380