Roasted chicken breasts topped with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and chopped basil make this Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Caprese both beautiful and delicious.
This one-pan skillet meal combines creamy mozzarella, savory sun-dried tomatoes and fragrant basil for a true Caprese flavor profile. The ingredients come together quickly, producing a satisfying weeknight dinner with minimal effort.
After a brief sear on the stovetop, the skillet goes into the oven to finish cooking while you prepare a simple side or salad. The result is juicy chicken with a melty, vibrant topping and a glossy balsamic finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe For Caprese Chicken
Flavorful: Bold, balanced flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and basil.
Easy: Minimal steps and basic equipment — perfect for busy evenings.
Colorful: Bright tomatoes and fresh basil add visual appeal and freshness.
What is sun-dried tomato?
Sun-dried tomatoes are ripe tomatoes that have been dehydrated to concentrate their flavor. They are sold dry or preserved in oil; those packed in oil are especially convenient and rich-tasting for recipes like this one.
Ingredients For Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken
- Chicken breasts – skinless, boneless; thighs are a tasty alternative.
- Fresh mozzarella cheese – creamy and mild; bocconcini also works well.
- Sun-dried tomatoes – those preserved in oil give the best flavor.
- Balsamic glaze – adds a sweet, tangy finish.
- Olive oil – extra virgin preferred.
- Fresh vine tomatoes – sliced for topping or to scatter around the skillet.
- Fresh basil – torn or chopped for garnish and aroma.
- Salt and pepper – to taste.
How To Make This Chicken Caprese Recipe
Step 1: Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then spread sun‑dried tomato preserve on both sides.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a cast iron or other oven-safe skillet and sauté the chicken until golden brown, about 5–7 minutes per side depending on thickness.
Step 3: Top each breast with slices of fresh mozzarella and tomato. Arrange extra tomatoes around the skillet if desired.
Step 4: Bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature. Finish with torn basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
If you enjoy sun-dried tomatoes, try other creamy or pasta-based recipes that make use of their concentrated flavor.
Tips and Variations
Swap proteins: Chicken thighs, turkey breasts or even salmon fillets can be used in place of chicken breasts.
Always sear first: Searing the chicken before baking locks in juices and builds flavor.
Different cheeses: Fresh mozzarella is classic, but bocconcini, halloumi or paneer can be interesting alternatives depending on the texture you want.
Herb swaps: Basil is ideal for Caprese, but oregano or rosemary work well if basil isn’t available.
FAQs
Caprese chicken typically features seasoned chicken topped with fresh tomatoes, basil and mozzarella, often finished with a balsamic glaze.
Yes. Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative for a dairy‑free dish; the sun‑dried tomatoes and herbs still deliver strong flavor.
You can, but rehydrate dried sun‑dried tomatoes first (soak in warm water) or chop and mix with a little oil. Tomatoes packed in oil are more convenient and typically more flavorful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Make ahead: This baked Caprese chicken reheats well and is a good meal-prep option. Store cooled portions in an airtight container in the fridge for a few days.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for 3–4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
RECIPE TIP
Keep a jar of sun-dried tomatoes in oil in the fridge. They last a long time and add a concentrated tomato flavor to many dishes.
More chicken recipes to try next time:
- Braised Chicken and Potatoes
- Slow Cooker French Onion Chicken
- Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks
- Garlic Chicken Thighs and Green Beans Skillet
- Lemon Butter Chicken Thighs
FOR THIS RECIPE YOU WILL NEED:
Cast iron or other oven-safe skillet and a large cutting board. A jar of sun-dried tomato spread or tomatoes preserved in oil and a good quality glazed balsamic vinegar will simplify preparation and boost flavor.
Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Caprese
Pin Recipe
Rate Recipe
Print Recipe
Equipment
-
1 oven-safe skillet
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomato preserved in oil
- 2 tbsp glazed balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- fresh vine tomatoes
- fresh basil
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Season chicken with salt and pepper and spread sun-dried tomato preserve on both sides.
-
Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet and sauté the chicken until golden brown, about 6 minutes per side.
-
Top each breast with mozzarella and tomato slices; add extra tomatoes around the skillet if desired.
-
Bake at 400°F for about 15 minutes. Finish with fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an approximation and should be used as a guide.
