How to Make the Perfect Caprese Chicken Skillet
Italian · Easy · 15 min · 4 servings
This caprese chicken skillet brings together juicy pan seared chicken, fresh mozzarella, and ripe tomatoes in a beautiful 15-minute dinner. Quick enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests, this Italian-inspired dish is a true crowd pleaser.
Why this recipe works
This Caprese Chicken Skillet recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 15 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 380 calories with 44g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1.5 lbs thin chicken cutlets
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella sliced
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 0.5 tsp Italian seasoning
- 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Season and Sear
Season chicken cutlets with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken for 4 minutes per side until golden.
Step 2: Add Toppings
Arrange tomato slices over each cooked chicken cutlet and place fresh mozzarella slices on top. The residual heat from the chicken will help melt the cheese.
Step 3: Melt the Cheese
Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and let sit for 2 minutes off the heat until the mozzarella melts beautifully over the chicken.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Scatter fresh basil leaves over the top and drizzle with a little extra olive oil or balsamic glaze. Serve directly from the skillet.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- fresh mozzarella → shredded mozzarella which melts more quickly and evenly
- fresh tomatoes → canned diced tomatoes drained and seasoned for a saucier version
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using thick chicken breasts instead of cutlets which requires more than 15 minutes to cook through
- Adding basil while the pan is still hot which wilts and blackens the delicate leaves
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 380 calories, 44g protein, 6g carbs, 18g fat, 1g fiber.
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