Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Meat mallet
- Toothpicks
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Using a meat mallet, pound the chicken breasts until they are an even thickness.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
5. Spoon the tomato and cheese mixture onto one side of each chicken breast.
6. Fold the other side of the chicken breast over the filling and secure with toothpicks.
7. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
8. Add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.
9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
10. Remove the toothpicks before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 34g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Grape tomatoes can be used instead of cherry tomatoes.
- Any type of cheese can be used in place of mozzarella.
- Parsley can be used instead of basil.
Variations:
- Add sliced black olives to the filling.
- Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
- Grill the stuffed chicken breasts instead of baking them.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Use toothpicks to secure the filling inside the chicken breasts.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the stuffed chicken breasts on a bed of greens or with a side of roasted vegetables.
Garnishes:
Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves.
Pairings:
Pair with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
- Simple salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the chicken breasts are not cooking evenly, try pounding them to an even thickness or adjusting the heat on the stove.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
The Caprese salad originated in the island of Capri in Italy and is made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
Flavor profiles:
The Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breasts are savory, cheesy, and bursting with fresh tomato and basil flavors.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breasts as a main dish for dinner.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Italian
Taste: Savory, Tangy, Herbaceous, Creamy, Cheesy