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Flavorful Caprese Stuffed Chicken

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A juicy, tender chicken breast stuffed with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, pan-seared to perfection and finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This easy Italian-inspired dinner is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or torn
  • 2 medium Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced
  • 12 fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or mix of dried oregano, thyme, rosemary)
  • Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
  • Toothpicks or kitchen twine, to secure the chicken pockets

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each breast horizontally to create a pocket without cutting all the way through.
  2. Season the inside and outside of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Stuff each pocket with 2-3 slices of fresh mozzarella, 3-4 thin tomato slices, and 3 basil leaves. Secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the pan and cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until golden brown on the bottom.
  6. Flip the chicken carefully and cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove toothpicks or twine carefully. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  9. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with extra basil leaves before serving.

Notes

Use a sharp knife to carefully slice the chicken to avoid cutting through. Do not overstuff the chicken to prevent leaking. Cook over medium heat and cover the pan during the final cooking stage to keep the chicken juicy. Let the chicken rest before slicing to redistribute juices. Optionally finish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness. Can bake after searing at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese stuffed chicken, stuffed chicken breast, Italian chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, mozzarella stuffed chicken, basil chicken, balsamic glaze chicken

Find it online: https://emacrave.com/flavorful-caprese-stuffed-chicken-recipe-easy-juicy-dinner-idea/