Ready in: 40 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.Quick Answer
For an easy and flavorful dinner, bake seasoned chicken with cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella on a sheet pan.As the holiday season approaches in New York City, I find myself drawn to the warmth of my kitchen, where the scents of hearty dishes fill the air. One of my favorite recipes to prepare during this bustling time is Sheet Pan Caprese Chicken. It effortlessly combines fresh ingredients into a comforting meal that feels both festive and satisfying.
A Festive Gathering Dish
This Sheet Pan Caprese Chicken is the perfect centerpiece for your Thanksgiving or Christmas gathering, offering a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: With minimal prep time and just one pan, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil creates a vibrant dish that bursts with flavor.
- Versatile: Perfect for holiday gatherings or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress guests and family alike.
- Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with lean protein and fresh ingredients, it's a nutritious choice for any meal.
- Easy Cleanup: Cooking everything on a sheet pan means less mess and hassle in the kitchen.
Ingredients
To create this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Vegetables
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
Dairy
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls, drained
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup balsamic glaze
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
How to Make Sheet Pan Caprese Chicken (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to prepare an irresistible sheet pan dinner:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). As the warm air fills my kitchen, I can already envision the delicious aromas that will soon waft through my home.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
On a large sheet pan, drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, dried oregano, and a healthy pinch of salt and pepper. I like to get my hands in there, mixing everything together to create a savory base for the chicken.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on the pan, turning them to coat in the seasoned oil. I often use a 10-inch cast-iron skillet for this step to ensure even cooking, but a regular sheet pan works just fine, too.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken, their juicy sweetness contrasting beautifully with the savory flavors. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the tomatoes, and season with additional salt and pepper.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Just as the chicken starts to cook through, the nutty aroma of the tomatoes roasting begins to fill the room.
Step 6: Add Mozzarella
Remove the pan from the oven, then add the fresh mozzarella balls on top of the chicken and tomatoes. Return the pan to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the mozzarella is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Once done, I take a moment to admire my creation before I finish it off with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a generous scattering of fresh basil leaves, adding a vibrant touch.
Step 8: Serve
Serve warm, letting the juices seep into the succulent chicken, creating a dish that's bound to impress everyone at your Thanksgiving or Christmas gathering!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken and vegetables to allow even cooking and caramelization.
- Skipping the Rest Period: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to retain its juices.
- Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh mozzarella and basil to capture the authentic Caprese flavors.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For a flavor boost, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a couple of hours before cooking.
- Serve with a side of crusty Italian bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a light arugula salad for an extra crunch and freshness.
Variations
- Use different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta, for a unique flavor.
- Swap cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense taste.
- Incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
How to Serve
- Serve warm, letting the juices seep into the chicken.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Provide extra mozzarella on the side for cheese lovers.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and season it a few hours in advance before baking.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or enjoy it cold in a salad for a delightful contrast.
- Freezing: This dish is not recommended for freezing due to the texture of the tomatoes and mozzarella.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet satisfying the flavors melded together. The combination of warm, gooey mozzarella with the fresh basil at the end really elevated the dish, making it feel festive and inviting for my holiday gatherings.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with toppings
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 30g protein · 9g carbs · 22g fat
Recipe by:
Sheet Pan Caprese Chicken for Festive Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a large sheet pan, drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, dried oregano, and salt and pepper. Mix together.
- Place the chicken breasts on the pan, turning to coat in the seasoned oil.
- Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken. Drizzle the remaining olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 20 minutes.
- Add the fresh mozzarella on top and bake for an additional 10 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) and mozzarella is melted.
- Finish with balsamic glaze and fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
It's best to use fresh chicken breasts for optimal flavor and texture. If you must use frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and dried before preparation.
2. Can I substitute balsamic glaze?
Yes, you can use balsamic vinegar instead, but the flavor will be different. Consider reducing the vinegar over low heat to create a similar consistency.
3. What can I serve with Sheet Pan Caprese Chicken?
This dish pairs well with a side of crusty Italian bread or a light arugula salad to complement the flavors and textures.
4. How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and assemble them on the sheet pan. When ready to cook, simply pop them in the oven for a quick meal.
