Name: Balsamic Caprese Chicken with Melty Mozzarella
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved); 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced); Salt and pepper (to taste); 1 tablespoon olive oil

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Picture a perfect weeknight dinner that’s bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors yet comes together in under 30 minutes. That’s exactly what you get with Balsamic Caprese Chicken with Melty Mozzarella. Tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection, topped with juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and ooey-gooey melted mozzarella, all drizzled with a luscious balsamic-honey glaze. It’s a spin on the classic Caprese salad that transforms humble chicken into a show-stopping meal worthy of any occasion.

Why It’s My Go-To

I love this Balsamic Caprese Chicken with Melty Mozzarella because it’s the ultimate combination of simple ingredients delivering big flavor without the fuss. The balsamic vinegar reduced with honey creates a tangy-sweet sauce that perfectly complements the savory chicken and fresh produce. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder — meaning less cleanup and more time to relax. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. And if you’re a fan of Italian-inspired dishes, it’s easy to see why this has become a staple in my weekly rotation.

Shopping List

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup fresh basil leaves
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Appliances & Accessories

Large skillet or frying pan – for searing and cooking the chicken
Small saucepan – to reduce the balsamic vinegar and honey glaze
Tongs – to flip the chicken breasts easily
Sharp knife – for slicing mozzarella and halving tomatoes
Cutting board

Directions: Balsamic Caprese Chicken with Melty Mozzarella

Step 1: Prepare the Balsamic Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons honey. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Set aside and keep warm.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Cherry Tomatoes

In the same skillet, add halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and release their juices. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble and Melt the Mozzarella

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them on top of the tomatoes. Layer slices of fresh mozzarella cheese over each breast. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Finish with Basil and Balsamic Glaze

Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the chicken and tomatoes. Drizzle the balsamic-honey glaze generously on top. Serve immediately, spooning extra glaze and tomatoes over the chicken.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

Cherry tomatoes: Substitute with grape tomatoes or sliced sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
Fresh mozzarella: Use shredded mozzarella or burrata for a creamier texture.
Honey: Replace with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetness.
Basil leaves: Swap with fresh oregano or thyme for a unique herbal note.
Chicken breasts: Use boneless turkey cutlets or chicken thighs for a juicier result.

Behind the Recipe

This Balsamic Caprese Chicken with Melty Mozzarella was inspired by the classic Caprese salad, a dish that celebrates the simple yet divine combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil. By adding tender chicken and a luscious balsamic glaze, it transforms into a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

The balsamic vinegar reduction is key—it intensifies the vinegar’s natural sweetness and tang, and the honey balances the acidity beautifully. Cooking the tomatoes in the same pan as the chicken helps them soak up those savory flavors, making every bite a delightful experience.

For those who love pasta, this dish pairs wonderfully with recipes like Roasted Cherry Tomato Burrata Rigatoni or complements Caramelized Mushroom Balsamic Spaghetti perfectly.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken with tomatoes in a skillet over low heat, covering to keep the mozzarella melty. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken.

For freezing, cool completely then wrap each chicken breast individually in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the oven.

Ask the Chef

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes per side to ensure the chicken cooks through. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What’s the best way to melt the mozzarella without drying out the chicken?

Covering the skillet with a lid after adding the mozzarella traps steam, gently melting the cheese without overcooking the chicken. Keep the heat low and watch closely for perfectly gooey mozzarella.

Can I make the balsamic glaze ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the glaze up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it slightly before drizzling over the chicken to regain that syrupy consistency.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to this dish?

Definitely. You can substitute the chicken breasts with thick slices of grilled eggplant or portobello mushrooms. Layer with the same tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, then drizzle with the balsamic glaze for a delicious vegetarian take.

Weekend Projects

Pesto Chicken Mozzarella Stuffed Shells – A cheesy, comforting pasta bake that’s perfect for weekend meal prep.
Roasted Cherry Tomato Burrata Rigatoni – Dive into a luscious pasta dish featuring sweet roasted tomatoes and creamy burrata.
Caramelized Mushroom Balsamic Spaghetti – Earthy mushrooms meet tangy balsamic in this simple yet elegant pasta recipe.

See You at the Table

This Balsamic Caprese Chicken with Melty Mozzarella brings together the best of fresh ingredients and easy cooking techniques into one irresistible dish. Whether you’re craving a wholesome dinner or entertaining guests with minimal effort, this recipe delivers. Serve it alongside crusty bread or a light salad to soak up all that glorious balsamic glaze. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every bite as much as I do!

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