Easy Caprese Chicken with Balsamic Glaze and Garden Tomatoes

Looking for a quick and healthy dinner with bold flavor and fresh ingredients?
You’ll love this Easy Caprese Chicken with Balsamic Glaze and Garden Tomatoes.

Juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil—drizzled with a sweet balsamic glaze. It’s a simple recipe that feels fancy, but it’s easy enough for busy nights.

Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even a romantic meal at home.

Let’s learn how to make this easy and delicious Caprese chicken.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses easy-to-find, fresh ingredients that pack big flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken breasts – Boneless, skinless works best. You can also use chicken thighs.
• Fresh mozzarella – Use slices or a mozzarella ball for that creamy melt.
• Tomatoes – Garden tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, or any ripe ones you love.
• Fresh basil leaves – Adds a bright, herby flavor.
• Balsamic glaze – You can buy it at the store or make it at home (just balsamic vinegar and a little sugar).
• Olive oil – For cooking the chicken.
• Salt and pepper – For basic seasoning.

Optional:

Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or a pinch of red chili flakes for more flavor

How to Make Caprese Chicken (Step-by-Step)

Making Caprese chicken is easy, and it only takes one pan. Here’s how to do it:

1. Prepare the Chicken
   Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness if needed.

Season both sides with salt, pepper, and any extra spices you like.

2. Cook the Chicken
   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add the chicken and cook for about 5–7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).

Remove from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes.

3. Add Cheese and Tomatoes
   Place slices of mozzarella on top of each chicken piece.

Add tomato slices or halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken.

Cover the skillet for 2–3 minutes to let the cheese melt.

4. Finish with Basil and Glaze
   Top everything with fresh basil leaves.

Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the chicken and tomatoes before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Caprese Chicken

• Ready in 30 minutes – Quick enough for any weeknight dinner
• Only one pan – Less cleanup, more time to relax
• Fresh and flavorful – Every bite tastes like summer
• Family-friendly – Even picky eaters enjoy this one
• Easy to adjust – Swap ingredients based on what you have

Tasty Variations You Can Try

Want to mix things up? Here are some fun ways to change the recipe:

• Grilled Version: Cook the chicken on the grill for a smoky flavor.
• Oven-Baked Option: Bake chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, then add cheese and tomatoes and broil for 2–3 minutes.
• Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or drizzle hot honey before serving.
• Vegan Option: Use grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms instead of chicken, and plant-based mozzarella.
• Low-Carb Friendly: Skip pasta or rice and serve it with steamed veggies or a fresh salad.

What to Serve with Caprese Chicken

This dish goes well with many sides. Here are some simple and delicious ideas:

• Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices
• Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli
• Pasta tossed in olive oil or pesto
• Simple salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash

Meal Prep, Storage, and Reheating Tips

Meal Prep Tips:

Cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

Slice tomatoes and mozzarella in advance.

Add basil and glaze just before serving to keep it fresh.

Storage:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

Warm gently in a skillet or microwave.

Add a splash of water to keep the chicken moist.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?
Yes! It saves time and tastes great. Or simmer balsamic vinegar with a little honey or sugar until thick.

Can I use cherry tomatoes?
Absolutely! Just slice them in half and sprinkle them around the chicken.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just make sure your balsamic glaze has no added wheat or thickeners.

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-cooking?
Yes, grilled chicken works beautifully with the Caprese toppings.