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Caprese Chicken

If you’re looking for a vibrant and delicious meal that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make, you’ve come to the right place! Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of caprese chicken. With its juicy chicken breast topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella, this dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. Plus, we’ll show you how to simplify the process by using jarred sauce or homemade sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting friends.

What is Caprese Chicken?

Caprese chicken is a fantastic dish that combines classic Italian flavors, inspired by the traditional Caprese salad. The foundation of this dish is a succulent caprese chicken breast, which is topped with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil. The blend of these ingredients creates a mouthwatering meal that celebrates simplicity and fresh flavors.

One of the best things about easy caprese chicken is its versatility. You can enjoy it on its own, slice it up for salads, or even toss it into a bowl of pasta for a complete meal. It’s a fantastic option for those looking to add some Italian flair to their dinner rotation!

Made Easy with Jarred Sauce

Let’s be honest—sometimes, we just don’t have the time to whip up a homemade sauce from scratch. That’s where jarred sauces come to the rescue! Using a high-quality jarred marinara or tomato basil sauce can make the process of creating easy caprese chicken a breeze.

Simply sauté your chicken breast, add a generous spoonful of sauce, and let it simmer until everything is heated through. Top it off with fresh mozzarella and let it melt to perfection. Voila! You have a delicious dish ready to impress.

Of course, if you prefer to make your own sauce, feel free! A homemade sauce can elevate your caprese chicken pasta to new heights. Just remember to keep it simple and let the fresh ingredients shine.

How to Serve Over Pasta

I love to serve this right out of the pan with some crispy bread. But it’s also fabulous served over pasta! (Just heat up a little extra sauce.) Pairing your chicken with a bed of al dente spaghetti, penne, or any pasta you love creates a hearty and satisfying meal. Simply prepare your pasta as directed, and once your easy caprese chicken is ready, slice it up and nestle it on top. Drizzle a bit of extra sauce over the pasta, sprinkle some fresh basil, and you have yourself a colorful, restaurant-worthy plate.

You can also add a sprinkle of parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra touch of flavor. This dish is perfect for family dinners, date nights, or when you want to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen!

This dish was inspired by atrip to Italy a few years ago. I had the most delicious dish, and I get a little teary-eyed thinking about it right now. During lunch one day, while in Rome, I was sitting at this quaint little restaurant overlooking a beautiful piazza. I was sipping Italian wine, oooogeling over the architecture and anticipating a great lunch. But honestly, the dish I was served way exceeded all of my expectations. 

This dish was a whole fish fillet that was topped with beautiful bright cherry tomatoes from Sicily, lovely olive oil and a little bit of garlic. All I can say…..I was in heaven. The topping on this fish was to die for……

I was so in love with the tomato topping I immediately knew I had to re-create it in some way.  I kept thinking about how it’s really hard to find tomatoes that taste good back home. Sure, we have fabulous tomatoes in August…ok for some of August, but really we don’t have great tomatoes most of the year…..ugh…..Then I remembered, all tomatoes are delicious once they are roasted! So, I got to thinking a little more and came up with a great dish that I have to share with you!

FAQ: Easy Caprese Chicken

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for caprese chicken?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking to ensure even cooking.

2. What if I don’t like tomatoes?

No problem! You can swap out tomatoes for roasted red peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. Just adjust the cooking time based on the veggies you choose.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, and enjoy!

4. Can I use other cheeses besides mozzarella?

Definitely! While fresh mozzarella is traditional, you can use provolone, gouda, or even feta or goat cheese for a unique twist.

5. What sides pair well with caprese chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables. You can’t go wrong with a little extra Italian flair!

Easy caprese chicken is a delightful dish that brings together fresh ingredients and robust flavors, making it a perfect option for any occasion. Whether you choose to go the easy route with jarred sauce or whip up your own, this dish is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the deliciousness of caprese chicken pasta tonight!