Description
A juicy, flavorful chicken breast stuffed with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, delivering the classic Caprese flavors in a healthy and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz / 170g each)
- 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella (small mozzarella balls or sliced larger ball)
- 2 medium Roma tomatoes, sliced
- About 12 fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade, for drizzling, optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing chicken pockets
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- Slice chicken breasts horizontally to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. Pound to even thickness about ½ inch if needed.
- Season inside each chicken pocket with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Stuff each pocket with 2 oz (about 60g) fresh mozzarella, 3-4 slices Roma tomato, and 3 basil leaves. Secure pockets with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place stuffed chicken seam-side down and sear 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer chicken to baking dish (or oven-safe skillet) and bake for 15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove toothpicks or twine carefully. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm.
Notes
Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for even cooking. Use fresh mozzarella, not pre-shredded, for best melt. Secure pockets tightly with toothpicks to prevent filling loss. Let chicken rest 5 minutes after baking for juiciness. Balsamic glaze is optional but recommended for added flavor. Reheat leftovers gently in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes to keep moist.
- Prep Time: 12 minutes
- Cook Time: 23 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken br
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 45
Keywords: Caprese stuffed chicken, healthy chicken recipe, mozzarella stuffed chicken, easy dinner ideas, weeknight dinner, low carb chicken