Mediterranean Caprese-Style Baked Chicken
This Mediterranean-inspired baked chicken dish is bursting with fresh flavors and cheesy goodness. Juicy chicken breasts are oven-baked with ripe cherry tomatoes, melty mozzarella, and aromatic basil for a beautiful, light-yet-satisfying dinner. It’s a quick, easy, and wholesome meal that brings vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your table in under an hour!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp salt
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
1½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes
4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese (or shredded mozzarella)
¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus more for garnish)
1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry. Rub them with olive oil, then season evenly with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Sear (Optional):
For extra flavor, you can quickly sear the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side before baking.
Assemble in Baking Dish:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish. Scatter cherry tomatoes around the chicken.
Bake:
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Add Cheese:
Remove from oven and top each chicken breast with mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish:
Sprinkle with freshly chopped basil and drizzle with balsamic glaze if using.
Serve:
Plate warm with your favorite side, such as garlic roasted potatoes, couscous, or a crisp Mediterranean salad.
Tips
Pound the Chicken Evenly:
For quicker and more even cooking, gently pound the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness.
Sear for Extra Flavor:
A quick stovetop sear before baking gives the chicken a golden, flavorful crust.
Use an Oven Thermometer:
To avoid dry chicken, use a meat thermometer and remove from the oven once the internal temp hits 165°F (74°C).
Rest Before Serving:
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to keep the juices sealed in.
Variations
Cheese Swap:
Try feta, goat cheese, or provolone if you don’t have fresh mozzarella.
Add Veggies:
Toss in zucchini slices, red onions, or bell peppers with the tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
Spicy Kick:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili oil before baking for a bit of heat.
Low-Carb Option:
Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of pasta or potatoes.
Herb Boost:
Add thyme or rosemary for extra Mediterranean aroma.
Q&A (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the chicken and assemble everything up to the baking step. Refrigerate it covered, and bake when ready to serve.
Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: Great options include roasted garlic potatoes, quinoa, couscous, or a fresh arugula salad.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely. Chicken thighs add more flavor and stay juicy, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: What if I don’t have cherry tomatoes?
A: You can use grape tomatoes or even slice a few large tomatoes into thick rounds.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure any sauces or sides you serve it with are also gluten-free.
Nutrition (Per Serving, approx. based on 4 servings)
Calories: 360
Protein: 38g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Sugar: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 420mg
(Values may vary depending on specific brands and portion sizes.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Caprese-Style Baked Chicken is the perfect combination of fresh, juicy, and cheesy! The burst of cherry tomatoes, melted mozzarella, and fresh basil bring out bright and bold Mediterranean flavors in every bite. Whether you’re hosting guests or making a weeknight meal, this dish is elegant, easy, and satisfying. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a flavorful meal the whole family will love.