Stuffed Caprese Chicken
Tender chicken breasts stuffed with melty mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, basil, and baked in a light balsamic-garlic sauce. Elegant, healthy, and full of Mediterranean flavors.
Prep: 12 minutes
Cook: 20–25 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Servings:2
Ingredients
For the Chicken
2 medium chicken breasts
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian seasoning (or oregano + basil mix)
1 tbsp olive oil
Caprese Filling
6–8 cherry tomatoes (halved) OR 1 medium tomato
4–6 slices fresh mozzarella OR ½ cup shredded mozzarella
6–8 fresh basil leaves
½ tsp garlic powder
Balsamic-Garlic Sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp honey
2 tbsp water
Pinch salt + pepper
Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Place chicken breasts on a board and slice a pocket into each (don’t cut through).
Season outside & inside of the pockets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Drizzle with olive oil.
2. Stuff the Chicken
Layer mozzarella slices, basil leaves, and tomato slices inside each pocket.
Use toothpicks to secure (optional but helps prevent cheese from melting out).
3. Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in an oven-safe pan.
Sear chicken on each side for 2 minutes until lightly golden.
4. Make the Balsamic-Garlic Sauce
In the same pan, push chicken aside.
Add minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, honey, water, salt, and pepper.
Stir for 30–40 seconds until slightly thickened.
5. Bake
Transfer pan to the oven and bake 15–18 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (juices run clear).
Serve With
Basil leaves on top
Extra balsamic glaze drizzle
Side of roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or salad
Notes & Tips
Don’t overcook chicken; it stays juicier if removed at 73°C internal temp.
Use shredded mozzarella if you want more melt.
Add a little pesto inside for extra flavor.
Skip honey if you want it lighter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make it without balsamic?
Yes! Use lemon juice + a splash of soy sauce for a tangy alternative.
Q: Can I air fry?
Yes — 180°C for 14–16 minutes after stuffing.
Q: Can I prep ahead?
Stuff the chicken and refrigerate up to 8 hours before cooking.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 390–450
Protein: 45–50g
Carbs: 6–10g
Fat: 18–22g
Fiber: 1g