🧀 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Stuffed chicken breast sounds fancy—but in this case, it’s actually an easy weeknight miracle. Juicy chicken breasts are sliced open and filled with the iconic flavors of a classic Caprese salad: gooey mozzarella cheese, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fresh, fragrant basil. Once baked, the filling melts into the chicken and forms a flavor bomb of savory, creamy, tangy goodness in every bite.
This is a dinner that not only looks impressive, but feels special. And yet it only takes a handful of ingredients, one baking dish, and minimal effort. The result? A melt-in-your-mouth entrée that’s light but deeply satisfying.
No frying, no breading, no deep cleanup—just real food, oven-baked to perfection.
🛒 Ingredients & Substitutes
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this irresistible baked Caprese stuffed chicken recipe.
🐔 Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Choose thick cuts. The thicker, the better for stuffing.
🔁 Substitute: Chicken thighs (boneless, skin-on) can also work but require a slightly different cook time.
🧀 Cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
Melts quickly and gives a creamy interior.
🔁 Substitute: Use fresh mozzarella slices for a richer experience, or provolone if you want a more savory taste.
🍅 Tomatoes
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Sweet, juicy, and perfect for baking.
🔁 Substitute: Roma or grape tomatoes also work. Just chop into small chunks.
🌿 Herbs
- Fresh basil leaves
A few per chicken breast. Adds that signature Italian flavor.
🔁 Substitute: No dried basil here—only fresh will do. But arugula or baby spinach can work in a pinch for a peppery twist.
🧂 Seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Essential for flavor. Season both outside and inside the pockets.
🫒 Fat
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Helps brown and flavor the chicken while baking.
🔁 Substitute: Avocado oil or garlic-infused oil adds an interesting depth.
🍷 Optional
- Balsamic glaze, for serving
Adds a luxurious sweet-tangy finish.
🔁 Homemade glaze tip: Simmer balsamic vinegar with honey until thick.
🔪 How to Make Baked Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it fully heat while you prep.
2. Prep the Chicken
Using a sharp knife, create a deep pocket in each chicken breast. Don’t cut all the way through—you’re aiming for a secure pouch, not a flap.
3. Add the Filling
Layer inside each chicken pocket:
- A handful of shredded mozzarella
- A few halved cherry tomatoes
- 2–3 fresh basil leaves
Don’t overfill—leave enough room to close the chicken properly.
4. Secure with Toothpicks
Use toothpicks to close the slit and hold the filling in. This also helps keep shape while baking.
5. Season and Oil
Place the chicken breasts in a lightly greased baking dish. Drizzle olive oil over the top and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be melted, and the chicken golden.
7. Optional Finish
Drizzle with balsamic glaze right before serving. It brings a perfect final touch.
🧠 Expert Tips for Success
✔ Choose Thick Chicken Breasts
Thin cuts won’t hold filling well. Look for pieces at least 1 inch thick.
✔ Don’t Overstuff
It’s tempting, but too much filling will leak out during baking. Keep it balanced.
✔ Let It Rest
Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy and allows flavors to settle.
✔ Want a Crispier Finish?
Sear both sides in a hot pan for 2 minutes before transferring to the oven. It adds color and locks in more juice.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve this with simple, elegant sides:
- Garlic butter green beans
- Herb roasted potatoes
- Lemon orzo salad
- Sautéed zucchini ribbons
- Crusty Italian bread with olive oil dip
For a low-carb option, pair it with cauliflower mash or a crisp romaine salad.
🥶 Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating
✅ Make Ahead Tips
- Stuff the chicken breasts and store (unbaked) in the fridge up to 24 hours.
- Bring to room temperature 15 minutes before baking.
❄️ Storing Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Do not freeze after baking, as fresh mozzarella doesn’t freeze well.
🔥 Reheating
- Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10–12 minutes, covered with foil.
- Avoid microwaving—it may dry out the chicken and separate the cheese.
🔄 Variations You’ll Want to Try
- Caprese Chicken Skillet – Cut the chicken into chunks, sauté, and mix with the same filling ingredients.
- Grilled Caprese Chicken – Marinate the breasts, grill, and top with warm mozzarella, tomato, and basil.
- Caprese Stuffed Chicken Thighs – Juicier, darker meat alternative.
- Caprese Chicken Casserole – Dice the chicken and layer all ingredients in a baking dish. Great for potlucks!
❓ FAQs: What You Need to Know
Q: Can I use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! They add a richer, more concentrated flavor. Chop them finely.
Q: What’s the best cheese if I don’t have mozzarella?
A: Try provolone or Monterey Jack. Even feta for a Mediterranean twist.
Q: Can I grill the stuffed chicken?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to secure the pockets well and use indirect heat to avoid burning.
Q: What can I use instead of balsamic glaze?
A: A simple reduction of balsamic vinegar with a spoon of honey works great. Or skip it entirely—the flavor is strong enough!
📋 Printable Recipe Card
plaintextCopyEditBaked Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 30 min
Total Time: 40 min
Servings: 4
Calories: 367 (approx.)
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut a pocket in each chicken breast without slicing all the way through.
3. Stuff with cheese, tomatoes, and basil.
4. Secure with toothpicks.
5. Place in a greased baking dish. Drizzle with oil and season.
6. Bake for 25–30 min until cooked through.
7. Remove toothpicks, drizzle with balsamic glaze, and serve.
🧮 Nutrition (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 367 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
| Sugar | 1.2g |
| Sodium | 410mg |
| Cholesterol | 98mg |
🍗 More Chicken Recipes You’ll Love
- 🔥 Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet
- 🌿 Herb-Crusted Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce
- 🧄 Stuffed Chicken with Spinach and Feta
- 🫑 Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Bake
