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Easy One-Pan Caprese Chicken Recipe with Balsamic Reduction

one-pan Caprese chicken - featured image
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A quick and easy one-pan Caprese chicken dish featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, and a tangy balsamic reduction. Perfect for a fuss-free dinner that feels fresh and vibrant.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds / 680 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (about 150 grams), halved
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • A handful fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped or whole for garnish
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar (120 ml)
  • Pinch of sugar
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for a slight kick

Instructions

  1. Pour 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan over medium heat. Add a pinch of sugar. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for about 10–12 minutes until thickened to a syrupy consistency. Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
  5. Nestle halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the skillet. Top each breast with slices of fresh mozzarella. Cover the pan with a lid or foil, reduce heat to low, and let cheese melt for 3–4 minutes.
  6. Remove lid and sprinkle fresh basil over chicken and tomatoes. Drizzle balsamic reduction generously on top. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
  7. Serve chicken with tomatoes and melted mozzarella immediately.

Notes

Dry the chicken breasts before cooking to ensure a good sear. Melt mozzarella cheese gently by covering the pan to avoid rubbery texture. Add balsamic reduction off the heat to prevent burning. Balsamic reduction can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. For thicker chicken breasts, pound slightly for even cooking. Use fresh basil added at the end to preserve flavor and color.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese chicken, one-pan recipe, balsamic reduction, easy dinner, chicken breast, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, quick meal

Find it online: https://cooksybite.com/easy-one-pan-caprese-chicken-recipe-with-balsamic-reduction-perfect-for-dinner/