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Easy Juicy Caprese Chicken Skillet Recipe with Balsamic Reduction

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A quick and easy skillet recipe featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with melted fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, and a tangy balsamic reduction. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds / 680 grams)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (about 150 grams), halved
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella (225 grams), sliced or torn
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves (about 10 leaves), torn
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar (120 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. (Prep time: 5 minutes)
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. (2 minutes)
  3. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until a golden brown crust forms.
  4. Flip the chicken, then add minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes around the pan. Cook for another 5 minutes until tomatoes soften and garlic is fragrant.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low. Top each chicken breast with slices or torn pieces of fresh mozzarella and sprinkle torn basil leaves on top. Cover loosely with a lid or foil and cook for 3-4 minutes until cheese melts.
  6. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan over medium heat, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Stir occasionally and simmer until thickened to a syrupy consistency, about 8-10 minutes.
  7. Once the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C) and cheese is melted, transfer to plates.
  8. Drizzle the balsamic reduction generously over each serving and garnish with extra fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before seasoning to get a golden crust. Use medium-high heat for searing to avoid burning. Let chicken rest 5 minutes after cooking for juiciness. Stir balsamic reduction frequently and simmer gently to prevent burning. Can substitute chicken thighs or turkey cutlets. For dairy-free, omit mozzarella or use plant-based cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese chicken, balsamic reduction, skillet chicken, easy chicken recipe, quick dinner, mozzarella chicken, cherry tomatoes, basil, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://grubella.com/easy-juicy-caprese-chicken-skillet-recipe-with-balsamic-reduction-guide/