Name: Baked Caprese Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought); 6 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 12 pieces; 3 tomatoes, thickly sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 12 ounces spaghetti; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; Chopped fresh basil, as needed for finishing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines fresh, simple ingredients into a wholesome dish that feels gourmet yet is easy to prepare. You’ll love the way the creamy mozzarella melts over tender chicken while the basil pesto infuses every bite with bold flavor. The balsamic drizzle ties everything together with a sweet and tangy finish. It’s a complete meal cooked in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
6 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 12 pieces
3 tomatoes, thickly sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
12 ounces spaghetti
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Chopped fresh basil, as needed for finishing

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Remove from heat and spread basil pesto evenly over each chicken breast.
Top each piece with mozzarella slices and tomato slices. Scatter cherry tomatoes around the skillet.
Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Remove the skillet from the oven, drizzle balsamic vinegar over the chicken, and sprinkle with fresh basil.
Serve the baked Caprese chicken over spaghetti with extra pan juices spooned on top.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Replace spaghetti with rice, quinoa, or zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Use provolone or burrata in place of mozzarella for a different cheese twist.
Add roasted bell peppers or spinach for extra vegetables.
Swap balsamic vinegar for a balsamic glaze for a sweeter finish.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a covered skillet over low heat until heated through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may cause the cheese to become rubbery.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay very juicy. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely, both homemade and store-bought pesto work for this recipe.

Do I have to bake the chicken, or can I finish it on the stovetop?

You can finish on the stovetop by covering the skillet with a lid and cooking over medium heat until the chicken is cooked through.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can assemble the chicken with pesto, cheese, and tomatoes ahead of time, then bake just before serving.

What pasta works best with this dish?

Spaghetti is classic, but penne, fettuccine, or angel hair also work beautifully.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free mozzarella alternative.

How do I keep the chicken moist?

Searing before baking and baking just until done helps keep the chicken juicy.

Can I use balsamic glaze instead of vinegar?

Yes, balsamic glaze will add a sweeter, thicker finish.

What side dishes go well with Caprese chicken?

A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread pair wonderfully.

Conclusion

This baked Caprese chicken skillet is a simple yet impressive recipe that highlights the best of Italian flavors. With juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and basil pesto, every bite is full of comfort and freshness. Served over pasta, it makes for a satisfying family dinner or an elegant meal for entertaining.