Description
This Chicken Caprese Skillet is a delightful one-pan meal combining juicy, seasoned chicken breasts with savory sautéed onions, garlic, and tomatoes, topped with melted mozzarella pearls, fresh basil, and a tangy-sweet balsamic reduction. Perfect for a flavorful and satisfying dinner, this recipe comes together in about 35 minutes and serves four.
Ingredients
Scale
For Balsamic Reduction
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
For Chicken and Skillet
- 4 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts (24 oz)
- 1¼ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups sliced tomatoes
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- 4 ounces part-skim mozzarella pearls
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Prepare Balsamic Reduction: Combine 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon honey in a small saucepan. Simmer gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens into a syrupy consistency, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Season and Cook Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with kosher salt and ground black pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Onions, Garlic, and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the diced red onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the sliced tomatoes and dried thyme, stirring to combine. Cook until the tomatoes break down slightly and the mixture is heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Cheese: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them among the tomato mixture. Sprinkle the part-skim mozzarella pearls evenly over the chicken. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook just until the mozzarella melts, about 3-4 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Drizzle the prepared balsamic reduction over the chicken and tomato mixture, then sprinkle with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm, enjoying the blend of savory chicken, melted mozzarella, fresh herbs, and the sweet tang of balsamic reduction.
Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella pearls for the best melt and flavor contrast.
- The balsamic reduction can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Adjust the cooking time of the chicken according to thickness to avoid dryness.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and garlic.
- This dish pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.
