Roasted chicken breasts topped with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and chopped basil make this Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Caprese as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye.
This one-pan skillet meal combines creamy mozzarella, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and bright basil for the classic Caprese flavor profile atop juicy chicken. It’s a flavorful, colorful dish that comes together quickly, making it ideal for a family-friendly weeknight dinner. After a brief sauté, transfer the skillet to the oven and finish the dish while you prepare sides.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe For Caprese Chicken
Flavorful: Sun-dried tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil give the chicken a rich, layered taste.
Simple: Minimal steps and one pan make prep and cleanup easy.
Vibrant: The red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil brighten the plate and the table.
What is sun-dried tomato?
Sun-dried tomatoes are ripe tomatoes that have been dried to concentrate their flavor. They are sold either dry in bags or preserved in oil; the oil-packed variety adds extra richness and is convenient to use.
Ingredients For Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken
- Chicken breasts – skinless, boneless; thighs can be substituted.
- Fresh mozzarella – creamy fresh mozzarella or bocconcini works well.
- Sun-dried tomatoes – tomatoes preserved in oil add savory depth.
- Balsamic glaze – a drizzle provides a sweet-tangy finish.
- Olive oil – extra virgin is preferred.
- Fresh vine tomatoes – sliced for topping and garnish.
- Fresh basil – adds aroma, color, and flavor.
- Salt and pepper – to taste.
How To Make This Chicken Caprese Recipe
Step 1: Season the chicken with salt and pepper and spread sun-dried tomato preserve over both sides.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a cast-iron or oven-safe skillet. Sear the chicken until golden brown, about 5–6 minutes per side.
Step 3: Top each breast with slices of fresh mozzarella and tomato. Add extra tomato slices around the skillet if desired.
Step 4: Bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature. Finish with torn fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
If you enjoy cooking with sun-dried tomatoes, try other recipes that feature their robust flavor: creamy gnocchi, sun-dried tomato pasta dishes, or baked drumsticks with similar flavor accents.
Tips and Variations
Change the protein: Chicken thighs, turkey breasts, or even salmon fillets can be used instead of breasts.
Sear first: Browning the chicken before baking locks in juices and adds flavor.
Switch the cheese: Bocconcini, halloumi, or paneer can be substituted if you want a different texture.
Try other herbs: Basil is classic, but oregano or rosemary work well if basil isn’t available.
FAQs
Caprese chicken typically features seasoned chicken topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella, often finished with a balsamic glaze.
Yes. Omit the cheese for a dairy-free version or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
Yes, but rehydrate dry sun-dried tomatoes in hot water before using. Tomatoes preserved in oil are more convenient and flavorful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Make ahead: Cooked Caprese chicken stores well and makes a convenient meal prep option. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.
RECIPE TIP
Keep a jar of sun-dried tomatoes in oil in your fridge. They add concentrated flavor and a little goes a long way, plus they have a long shelf life when stored properly.
More chicken recipes to try next time:
- Braised Chicken and Potatoes
- Slow Cooker French Onion Chicken
- Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks
- Garlic Chicken Thighs and Green Beans Skillet
- Lemon Butter Chicken Thighs
FOR THIS RECIPE YOU WILL NEED:
Cast iron or any oven-safe skillet and a large cutting board. A jar of sun-dried tomato spread (or pesto) and good quality glazed balsamic vinegar are helpful but optional.
Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Caprese
Equipment
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1 Skillet
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes preserved in oil
- 2 tbsp glazed balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- fresh vine tomatoes
- fresh basil
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Season chicken with salt, pepper and sun-dried tomato preserve on both sides.
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Heat oil in a cast-iron or oven-safe skillet. Sauté the chicken until golden brown, about six minutes per side.
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Top the chicken with fresh mozzarella and tomato slices. Add extra tomatoes around the skillet if desired.
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Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes. Finish with fresh basil and a drizzle of glazed balsamic vinegar.
Nutrition
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Carbohydrates: 10g
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Protein: 56g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
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