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Quick Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast

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Juicy, flavorful chicken breasts stuffed with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, seared and baked to perfection. A quick and easy Italian-inspired meal perfect for weeknights or dinner parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz / 170 g each)
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced (preferably buffalo mozzarella)
  • 2 medium ripe Roma or vine tomatoes, thinly sliced
  • About 12 fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste (kosher salt preferred)
  • Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling before serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket without cutting all the way through.
  3. Season the chicken breasts inside and out with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Stuff each chicken breast pocket with 2-3 slices of mozzarella, 2-3 tomato slices, and 3 basil leaves. Avoid overfilling to prevent cheese leakage.
  5. Secure the pockets with toothpicks if necessary, remembering to remove them before serving.
  6. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  7. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  8. Transfer the skillet (or move the chicken to a baking dish) into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  9. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
  10. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with extra basil leaves before serving.

Notes

Do not overstuff the chicken breasts to prevent cheese from leaking out. Pound chicken breasts to even thickness if needed for uniform cooking. Sear before baking to lock in juices and create a golden crust. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Let chicken rest after baking for juicy results. Toothpicks can help secure pockets but remember to remove before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese, stuffed chicken breast, mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, quick dinner, easy recipe, Italian, weeknight meal, juicy chicken

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/quick-caprese-stuffed-chicken-breast-recipe-for-juicy-easy-meals/