Caprese Chicken
Caprese chicken is a delicious and healthy dish that brings together the classic Italian flavors of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with juicy and tender chicken breasts. It's a great option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, but it's also fancy enough to serve for a special occasion. To prepare caprese chicken, you'll need to season chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then cook them in a skillet until they're cooked through and golden brown. Next, top the chicken with sliced tomatoes and fresh mozzarella cheese, and bake it in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Finally, sprinkle the dish with fresh basil for a burst of vibrant flavor. Caprese chicken is a light and satisfying meal that pairs well with various side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple green salad, and it's guaranteed to please everyone at the table.
Benefits of Caprese chicken
Caprese chicken is a simple and delicious dish that typically consists of chicken breasts topped with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves. Here are some benefits of Caprese chicken:- High in Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles, tissues, and organs. This makes Caprese chicken a nutritious option for those looking to increase their protein intake.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Tomatoes are a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium and folate. Mozzarella cheese is high in calcium, which is important for building and maintaining strong bones.
- Low in Calories: Caprese chicken is a low-calorie dish, which makes it a good option for those trying to manage their weight. It can be a filling and satisfying meal without adding too many calories to your daily intake.
- Contains Antioxidants: Tomatoes and basil are both rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against damage from free radicals. These antioxidants may help prevent chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's.
- Easy to Prepare: Caprese chicken is a simple and easy dish to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, you can have a flavorful and healthy meal on the table in no time.
How to store Caprese Chicken
Caprese chicken should be stored in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth and keep it fresh. Here are some steps you can follow to store Caprese chicken properly:- Let it cool: Allow the Caprese chicken to cool down to room temperature for 30 minutes before storing it in the refrigerator. This will prevent the buildup of condensation, which can lead to spoilage.
- Store in an airtight container: Transfer the Caprese chicken to an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. This will prevent moisture and air from getting in and spoiling the dish.
- Label and date: Label the container with the name of the dish and the date it was prepared. This will help you keep track of how long it has been stored in the refrigerator and avoid consuming it after it has expired.
- Store in the refrigerator: Place the Caprese chicken in the refrigerator and store it for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing it instead.
- Reheat properly: When reheating Caprese chicken, make sure to heat it until it's hot all the way through, to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Reheating leftover Caprese chicken in the oven or microwave can be a quick and easy way to enjoy it again.
By following these steps, you can store Caprese chicken safely and enjoy it again later as a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese
2 medium-sized tomatoes, sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
Balsamic glaze or reduction, for serving (optional)
Read More: Baked Salmon
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet. Top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella cheese and 2-3 slices of tomato.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze or reduction over the chicken breasts, if desired.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Caprese chicken!
