Tender chicken breasts stuffed with a delicious combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, topped with a flavorful tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method of Preparation:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Toss the ingredients until well combined.
3. Cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the Caprese mixture, distributing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Heat a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil to the skillet.
6. Carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they have a golden-brown sear.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
8. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information:
The number of calories in this recipe can vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. However, on average, one serving of Caprese Stuffed Chicken is approximately 300-350 calories.
Benefits:
This Caprese Stuffed Chicken recipe is a healthier option because it's loaded with lean protein from the chicken breasts and provides a burst of fresh flavors from the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. It's also relatively low in calories, making it suitable for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Additionally, the inclusion of fresh basil adds some vitamins and antioxidants to the dish, contributing to its overall nutritional value.