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One-Pan Chicken Caprese with melted mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil.

Classic One-Pan Chicken Caprese — Tomatoes, Basil, Mozzarella Melt

This delicious and simple one-pan chicken caprese recipe brings together tender chicken, sweet tomatoes, fragrant basil, and melted mozzarella for a perfect weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Large baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Paper towels
  • Medium bowl

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to 3/4-inch thickness if thick)
  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes halved
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese sliced or torn into bite-sized pieces
  • fresh basil leaves a good handful, roughly torn or left whole

Seasonings & Oil

  • 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2-3 cloves garlic minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional

  • Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Chicken & Tomatoes

  • Pat the chicken breasts dry, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and dried oregano.
  • Place the seasoned chicken breasts on one side of the baking sheet.
  • In a medium bowl, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with the remaining 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced fresh garlic (if using), a pinch of salt, and pepper, then arrange them on the other side of the baking sheet around the chicken.

Baking

  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F / 74°C) and the tomatoes have softened and are slightly burst.

Finishing

  • Remove the pan from the oven, distribute the mozzarella over the chicken and tomatoes, and scatter most of the fresh basil leaves over everything.
  • Return to the oven for 5-8 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly and just starting to turn golden.
  • Garnish with the remaining fresh basil leaves and, if desired, drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before baking. Ensure chicken is fully cooked before adding cheese. Adjust seasoning to your taste preferences. This recipe pairs well with a side of pasta or a fresh green salad.