Baked Caprese Chicken

Here’s a simple and delicious Baked Caprese Chicken recipe:

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Baked Caprese Chicken

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

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Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced

• Fresh basil leaves (about 1 cup, loosely packed)

• Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)

• Optional: minced garlic or balsamic vinegar for extra flavor

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Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the chicken:

   • Season both sides of chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

   • Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. (Optional but adds flavor.)

3. Bake:

   • Transfer skillet to the oven, or move chicken to a baking dish.

   • Scatter cherry tomatoes around the chicken.

   • Bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

4. Add cheese & finish baking:

   • Remove from oven and top each chicken breast with slices of mozzarella.

   • Return to oven for 3–5 more minutes until cheese is melted.

5. Garnish & serve:

   • Top with fresh basil leaves.

   • Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.

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Serving suggestions:

Serve with a side of garlic bread, a green salad, or over a bed of pasta or quinoa.