Oven Baked 5-Ingredient Caprese Chicken Recipe
This Oven-Baked 5-Ingredient Caprese Chicken is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Tender thin-cut chicken breasts are topped with creamy fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, sweet balsamic glaze, and fragrant basil, creating a classic Italian-inspired dinner that’s both elegant and incredibly simple.
Everything bakes together on one sheet pan, making cleanup effortless while delivering juicy chicken, melted cheese, and rich caprese flavors in every bite. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or entertaining guests, this easy baked mozzarella chicken recipe is guaranteed to impress with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 5 simple ingredients for a quick homemade dinner.
- Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-pan meal means easy cleanup.
- Naturally low in carbohydrates, making it great for low-carb lifestyles.
- High in protein to keep you full and satisfied.
- Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze create authentic Caprese flavors.
- Elegant enough for guests but simple enough for everyday family meals.
Health Benefits
- Chicken breasts provide lean, high-quality protein that supports muscle growth and keeps you satisfied.
- Fresh mozzarella supplies calcium and protein while creating a creamy texture.
- Cherry tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and lycopene that support overall health.
- Fresh basil adds antioxidants and vibrant flavor without extra calories.
- Balsamic glaze delivers sweet-tangy flavor using only a small amount, reducing the need for heavy sauces.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can easily fit into many low-carb meal plans.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds thin-cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ cups fresh mozzarella slices
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup balsamic glaze
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet.
- Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover each chicken breast with thick mozzarella slices.
- Scatter cherry tomatoes over and around the chicken.
- Drizzle evenly with balsamic glaze.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
- Let rest for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle with fresh basil before serving.
- Spoon the melted cheese, tomatoes, and pan juices over each serving.
Recipe Tips
- Slice regular chicken breasts into thinner cutlets for faster cooking.
- Try smoked mozzarella or provolone for extra flavor.
- Add sliced tomatoes if cherry tomatoes aren’t available.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
