Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breasts: An Easy Dinner Recipe

Looking for an easy dinner recipe that’s both elegant and bursting with flavors? Look no further! Our Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breasts are the perfect choice.

This dish combines the classic Italian Caprese salad with tender chicken breasts, making it a delightful and straightforward option for your weeknight dinners or special occasions.

With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen.

Are you ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful easy dinner recipe? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure and create a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients: Metric / Imperial

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 600g / 1.3 lbs)
• 1 cup (240 ml) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup (240 ml) fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine, for securing the chicken

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 350

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Begin by carefully slicing a pocket into each chicken breast, taking care not to cut all the way through. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, fresh basil, minced garlic, and olive oil to create the Caprese filling.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the Caprese mixture, securing the openings with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
5. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Once hot, sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
7. Once done, drizzle the chicken breasts with balsamic glaze, and serve them hot.

Pros and Benefits:

• Chicken is a lean source of protein, making this an ideal dish for those watching their calorie intake.
• The fresh ingredients, such as tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella, offer a burst of vitamins and minerals.
• The recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit dietary preferences (e.g., low-carb, gluten-free).

Cons:

• Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
• Using toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the filling can be a bit fiddly for beginners.

Kitchen Accessories:

• Oven-safe skillet
• Tongs
• Mixing bowl
• Meat thermometer
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat.
2. What can I use instead of balsamic glaze? A reduction of balsamic vinegar or a drizzle of high-quality aged balsamic vinegar can be used.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance? You can assemble the chicken breasts and refrigerate them, then bake when ready to serve.
4. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe? You can make Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms using the same filling.
5. What side dishes pair well with this recipe? Options include garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
6. Can I make this recipe with frozen chicken breasts? It’s best to use fresh or thawed chicken for even cooking.
7. How do I check if the chicken is cooked through? Use a meat thermometer; the chicken should reach 75°C (165°F).
8. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh? Fresh basil is recommended for its vibrant flavor, but you can use dried if needed.
9. Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free? Use a dairy-free mozzarella alternative.
10. What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet? Sear the chicken in a regular skillet and transfer to a baking dish for the oven.

Conclusion:

Incorporating the freshness of a Caprese salad into succulent chicken breasts, this easy dinner recipe is a winning choice for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this dish’s simplicity and delightful flavors are sure to please. So, why wait? Try our Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breasts and savor a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

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