Pesto Chicken Caprese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish takes the best of both pesto and Caprese salad and combines them with juicy, tender chicken breasts. The basil pesto adds a punch of herby richness, while the fresh mozzarella and tomatoes create a creamy, tangy contrast. The simplicity of the ingredients and the easy preparation make this dish a winner every time. Plus, it’s visually stunning, with the vibrant green pesto and red tomatoes creating a beautiful plate that’s as appealing as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 (10- to 12-ounce) skinless boneless chicken breasts
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons basil pesto
• 1 large beefsteak tomato, cut into four ¼-inch thick slices
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 8 slices
• Fresh basil leaves, torn

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

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt on both sides.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat.
3. Top with pesto: Once the chicken is cooked, spread 2 tablespoons of basil pesto on top of each chicken breast.
4. Add the tomato and mozzarella: Place 2 slices of fresh mozzarella and 1 slice of tomato on top of each chicken breast. Return the skillet to the stove over low heat and cover for 2-3 minutes, just long enough for the mozzarella to melt slightly.
5. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh torn basil leaves. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Serves 2
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

1. Grilled Chicken: For an even smokier flavor, grill the chicken breasts instead of pan-searing them.
2. Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the chicken before serving to add a sweet and tangy finish.
3. Roasted Garlic Pesto: Add roasted garlic to your pesto for a deeper, sweeter flavor.
4. Different Cheeses: If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, swap it for burrata or even a mild goat cheese for a different texture and flavor.
5. Vegan Version: Use a plant-based chicken substitute and vegan mozzarella for a dairy-free option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, though the mozzarella may not stay as melty.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs would be a great substitution and would add extra juiciness and flavor.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought pesto works perfectly in this recipe.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the chicken is best served fresh, you can prep the pesto and slice the tomato and mozzarella ahead of time to speed up the process when you’re ready to cook.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the pesto or top the chicken with a few slices of fresh jalapeño.

What sides should I serve with this?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or garlic bread.

Can I make the pesto from scratch?

Yes! Fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, pine nuts, and olive oil are all you need to make a homemade pesto. There are many recipes online for fresh pesto if you want to try it.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! You can make a vegetarian version by replacing the chicken with thick slices of grilled portobello mushrooms or even eggplant.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can swap mozzarella for provolone, gouda, or any mild cheese that melts well.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best to freeze the cooked chicken without the tomato and mozzarella. Once cooked and cooled, wrap the chicken in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Pesto Chicken Caprese is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the best of Italian ingredients with tender chicken breasts. The pesto, fresh mozzarella, and tomatoes come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. With minimal effort and maximum taste, this is a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat!

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