Print

Flavorful Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe with Easy Balsamic Reduction

Caprese stuffed chicken breast - featured image

A quick and easy stuffed chicken breast recipe featuring fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and a tangy balsamic reduction. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 6 ounces (170g) each, trimmed and pounded to even thickness
  • 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella, sliced or bocconcini
  • 2 medium Roma tomatoes, sliced thin
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • Optional: crushed red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. Pound to about 1/2 inch (1.2 cm) thickness for even cooking.
  3. Season both sides and inside the pockets with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
  4. Stuff each pocket with fresh mozzarella slices, tomato slices, and basil leaves. Add an extra basil leaf on top before closing the pocket.
  5. Secure openings with toothpicks if needed.
  6. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts seam side down first, cooking 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  7. Transfer skillet or chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. While baking, combine balsamic vinegar and honey or brown sugar in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half and syrupy, about 10-12 minutes.
  9. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. Remove toothpicks, drizzle with balsamic reduction, and serve.

Notes

Pound chicken breasts evenly for consistent cooking. Do not overfill the pockets to prevent leakage. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Prepare balsamic reduction while chicken bakes. Let chicken rest before slicing to retain juices. If chicken browns too quickly, reduce heat during searing. Adjust baking time for thicker breasts.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese, stuffed chicken breast, balsamic reduction, mozzarella, basil, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal