One-Pan Skillet Caprese Chicken: Your Go-To Easy Weeknight Dinner

Transform your weeknights with our incredible Caprese Chicken recipe! This dish effortlessly combines the fresh, vibrant flavors of summer into a simple, single-skillet meal. Imagine tender, perfectly seared chicken breasts nestled amongst sweet, juicy blistered cherry tomatoes, generously topped with gooey melted mozzarella, fragrant fresh basil, and a luscious drizzle of tangy balsamic reduction. It’s an Italian-inspired masterpiece that’s both elegant and incredibly easy to make, proving that gourmet flavors don’t have to be complicated.

Author’s Culinary Insight

Elevating Weeknight Dinners: Caprese Chicken That Tastes Impressively Fancy

As a seasoned home cook, I’ve explored countless Caprese Chicken variations over the years, always searching for that perfect balance of ease and exquisite flavor. I’m thrilled to share that this recipe truly checks every single box, consistently delivering a meal that feels special without demanding hours in the kitchen.

What sets this rendition apart? It’s remarkably fast, coming together in 30 minutes or less from start to finish. The magic happens in just one single pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing efficiency. But the real game-changer is the taste – it genuinely rivals dishes you’d savor at a high-end Italian restaurant. The cherry tomatoes are cooked just enough to blister beautifully, releasing their sweet juices to form a quick, incredibly flavorful sauce. And the combination of melty, creamy mozzarella with a vibrant swirl of pesto? Absolute next-level deliciousness!

If your heart desires a meal that’s fresh, effortlessly simple, and sure to impress both family and guests, look no further. This is that recipe. Trust me, the moment you clear your plate, you’ll already be planning your next Caprese Chicken night.

Why This One-Pan Caprese Chicken Recipe Stands Out

In a world of complicated recipes, our Skillet Caprese Chicken shines as a beacon of culinary simplicity and incredible flavor. Here’s why this dish deserves a permanent spot in your weekly rotation:

• Unbeatable Speed: Life is busy, and dinner shouldn’t add to the stress. This recipe is designed to be on your table in under 35 minutes, making it the perfect solution for hectic weeknights without compromising on taste.
• Effortless One-Pan Cooking: Say goodbye to piles of dirty dishes! Everything, from searing the chicken to simmering the vibrant tomato sauce and melting the cheese, happens in a single skillet. This not only simplifies the cooking process but also concentrates flavors for a richer, more cohesive dish.
• Gourmet Taste, Home Cook Convenience: Don’t let its simplicity fool you. The careful layering of flavors – perfectly seasoned chicken, sweet blistered tomatoes, aromatic garlic and onion, rich pesto, and creamy mozzarella – creates a sophisticated profile typically found in restaurant settings.
• Fresh, Wholesome Ingredients: Caprese is synonymous with freshness, and this dish is no exception. It’s packed with lean protein, nutrient-rich tomatoes, and healthy fats from olive oil and pesto, making it a delicious and balanced meal you can feel good about.
• Versatile & Adaptable: While perfect as is, this Caprese Chicken is also incredibly flexible. Easily adjust seasonings, add extra vegetables, or serve it with a variety of sides to suit any preference or dietary need.

Essential Caprese Chicken Ingredients: Quality Makes the Difference

While the full, detailed recipe is provided below, understanding the role and selection of each ingredient will elevate your Caprese Chicken from good to absolutely phenomenal. Here are a few key ingredient notes and tips for choosing the best:

• Chicken Breasts: We recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean protein and quick cooking time. Aim for uniform thickness (or butterfly them yourself) to ensure even cooking and juicy results.
• Cherry Tomatoes: These are the star of our sauce. Look for firm, ripe cherry tomatoes with smooth, unblemished skin. Their natural sweetness intensifies beautifully as they blister in the pan, creating a quick, vibrant sauce. Grape tomatoes also work wonderfully.
• Mozzarella Pearls: These small, tender balls of fresh mozzarella are ideal for this dish. They melt quickly and evenly, providing that irresistible creamy texture without overwhelming the other flavors. If pearls aren’t available, simply dice a ball of fresh mozzarella into small cubes. Avoid pre-shredded mozzarella as it often contains anti-caking agents that hinder a smooth melt.
• Basil Pesto: Pesto adds an incredible depth of herbaceous flavor. A good quality store-bought pesto is perfectly acceptable (brands like Rana’s are excellent), but for an extra burst of freshness, consider making your own homemade pesto.
• Parmesan Cheese: For the best flavor and texture, always grate your Parmesan fresh from a block. The super-fine shreds melt beautifully and infuse the dish with a nutty, salty depth that pre-grated varieties simply can’t match.
• Balsamic Reduction (Glaze): This sweet and tangy drizzle adds a sophisticated finish. You can buy it pre-made for convenience, or easily make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey until it thickens into a glossy syrup.
• Red Onion & Garlic: Finely diced red onion softens quickly and caramelizes slightly, building a savory base. Freshly minced garlic is crucial for aromatic depth.
• Italian Seasoning, Salt & Pepper: These staple seasonings provide the foundational savory and herbaceous notes for both the chicken and the sauce.
• Olive Oil & Unsalted Butter: A combination of olive oil for searing at high heat and butter for richness and flavor is key to perfectly browned chicken and a delicious pan sauce.

How To Make Caprese Chicken: Pro Tips for a Perfect Meal

Achieving restaurant-quality Caprese Chicken at home is simpler than you think. Follow these expert tips to ensure your dish is cooked to perfection every time:

• Prepare the Chicken Properly: To ensure your chicken cooks evenly and quickly, slice each breast in half horizontally to create two thinner cutlets. If the cutlets are still uneven, lightly pound them to a uniform thickness. This prevents some parts from drying out while others are still cooking.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken is dry chicken. For juicy, tender results, use a meat thermometer. Chicken is safely cooked and perfectly done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove it from the pan just shy of this (around 160°F), as it will continue to cook slightly while resting under foil.
• Embrace Your Cast Iron Skillet: A cast iron skillet is your best friend for this recipe. Its superior heat retention and distribution properties help achieve a beautiful, even sear on the chicken, locking in juices and developing a rich, golden-brown crust. It also helps create that delicious “fond” at the bottom of the pan, which is crucial for building a flavorful sauce.
• Add Fresh Basil at the End: Fresh basil is delicate. To preserve its vibrant color, aromatic flavor, and tender texture, always add it right before serving. The residual heat will warm it just enough to release its perfume without wilting it completely.
• Dice Onions Small for Quick Softening: Finely dicing your red onion allows it to soften faster and integrate seamlessly into the developing tomato sauce. Smaller pieces mean more surface area, leading to quicker caramelization and a smoother sauce texture.
• Build Layers of Flavor: Don’t skip scraping up the browned bits (fond) from the pan when you add the onions. These bits are packed with concentrated flavor from the chicken and seasonings, forming the delicious base of your Caprese sauce.
• Let Tomatoes Blister: Allow the cherry tomatoes to cook until they just begin to burst and soften. This process releases their natural sweetness and acidity, creating a wonderful natural sauce without needing to add extra liquid.

What To Serve with Caprese Chicken: Complete Your Meal

Caprese Chicken is a versatile main course that pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some excellent suggestions to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal:

• Pasta: A classic pairing! Toss spaghetti, penne, or angel hair pasta with a simple dressing of olive oil, a touch of garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. The pasta will beautifully absorb the delicious pan sauce from the chicken and tomatoes.
• Farro: For a hearty and healthy grain option, serve your Caprese Chicken alongside fluffy farro. Its nutty texture and subtle chewiness complement the juicy chicken and sweet tomatoes perfectly.
• Rice or Quinoa: Both brown rice and quinoa offer a simple, substantial, and nutritious base. Their mild flavors allow the vibrant Caprese elements to truly shine.
• Fresh Salad: To add even more freshness and crunch, pair your chicken with a crisp salad. A light garden salad, a zesty Caesar salad, or a refreshing cucumber salad would be fantastic choices.
• Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread: Don’t let any of that delicious Caprese sauce go to waste! A slice of warm, crusty bread or savory garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful juices.
• Roasted Vegetables: Complement the dish with a side of roasted asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.

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5 from 4 votes

Caprese Chicken Recipe

By
Chelsea Lords

Caprese Chicken comes together fast with tender chicken, blistered tomatoes, melty cheese, and a quick pesto and balsamic finish. Shop the recipe ingredients here.

Prep Time:
25 minutes

Cook Time:
10 minutes

Total Time:
35 minutes

Servings:
2 servings

Recipe Video

Learn how to make perfect Caprese Chicken with our step-by-step video guide!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 breasts)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning divided
• Salt and freshly ground pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1/2 large red onion finely diced
• 3 cups halved cherry tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese pearls (see Note 1)
• 1/3 cup ribboned fresh basil
• Basil pesto for serving (see Note 2)
• Parmesan cheese optional, for serving (see Note 3)
• Balsamic reduction optional, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare Chicken: Slice each boneless, skinless chicken breast in half horizontally to create two thinner cutlets. If needed, lightly pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, ¾ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Season one side of the chicken cutlets evenly with half of this spice mixture.
2. Sear Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken cutlets, seasoned side down, to the pan. Sprinkle the remaining half of the seasoning mixture over the top side of the chicken. Cook undisturbed for 4 minutes to achieve a golden-brown sear. Flip the chicken, add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the pan, and continue to cook for another 3–4 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and transfer it to a plate, covering loosely with foil to keep warm while you prepare the sauce. (The internal temperature will rise to 165°F as it rests.)
3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet (do not clean it, those browned bits are flavor!), reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the finely diced red onion. Sauté for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon, until the onion softens and turns translucent and lightly golden.
4. Create Tomato Sauce: Add the halved cherry tomatoes, the remaining 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and honey to the pan with the onions. Season with ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Increase the heat back to medium-high and cook for 2–4 minutes, stirring gently, until the tomatoes begin to soften and blister, releasing their juices to create a light sauce.
5. Finish & Serve: Remove the pan from the heat. Nestle the cooked chicken cutlets back into the pan with the tomato sauce, pouring any accumulated chicken juices from the plate over the top. Evenly sprinkle the mozzarella pearls around the chicken and tomatoes. Cover the pan for 1 minute to allow the cheese to melt and soften. Uncover, then add dollops of basil pesto to taste. Generously top with fresh ribboned basil. For an extra flourish, drizzle with balsamic reduction and, if desired, grate fresh Parmesan cheese over individual plates. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Note 1: Mozzarella Selection: While mozzarella pearls are perfectly sized and melt beautifully, you can absolutely substitute with fresh mozzarella. Simply dice a larger ball of fresh mozzarella into small cubes for similar results.

Note 2: Basil Pesto Options: For ultimate convenience, use your favorite store-bought pesto. If you have a few extra minutes and want to truly enhance the fresh flavors, consider preparing your own with my favorite Pesto Recipe.

Note 3: Parmesan Perfection: Elevate your Caprese Chicken by grating Parmesan cheese fresh from a block. Using a zester or microplane creates a super-fine texture that melts exquisitely and distributes its nutty flavor evenly across each bite.

Storage: This dish is at its peak when served immediately after cooking. If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the oven, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out and keep the chicken moist.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 serving |
Calories: 283 kcal |
Carbohydrates: 9.8 g |
Protein: 31.5 g |
Fat: 13.2 g |
Cholesterol: 92.9 mg |
Sodium: 164.4 mg |
Fiber: 2.3 g |
Sugar: 6.1 g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be considered an approximation.

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