Description
This Crispy Chicken Caprese recipe features juicy, breaded chicken breasts topped with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, finished with a drizzle of sweet balsamic glaze. Combining crispy textures and classic Caprese flavors, this easy 35-minute meal is perfect for a delicious Italian-inspired dinner that serves 4.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Breading
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 eggs
Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Toppings
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for baking the chicken after searing.
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper evenly for flavorful meat.
- Prepare the breading mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, making sure they are fully coated, then dredge into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Add toppings: Remove the skillet from heat. Arrange slices of fresh mozzarella and tomato evenly over each chicken breast.
- Bake the chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted.
- Finish and serve: Take the skillet out of the oven, top each piece with fresh basil leaves, and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Notes
- Use an oven-safe skillet like cast iron for easy transfer from stovetop to oven.
- For extra crispiness, double dip chicken in egg and breadcrumbs.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish; substitute with aged balsamic vinegar if glaze is unavailable.
- Serve with a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
