Chicken caprese cutlets topped with melted mozzarella, tomato slices, basil, and balsamic-style glaze.
This Chicken Caprese is fresh, melty, and perfect for weeknights. Sear chicken cutlets, then top with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for classic caprese flavor. Finish with a balsamic-style glaze for a sweet-tangy pop.
If you love caprese salad, you’ll love Chicken Caprese even more.
It feels fancy, but it’s a quick one-pan dinner with simple ingredients.
It’s a fan-favorite for a reason — everyone wants seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Caprese
- One-pan meal: Fast and minimal cleanup.
- Better than takeout: Fresh basil makes it pop.
- Quick dinner: Ready in about 25 minutes.
- Naturally gluten-free: No breading needed.
Ingredients for the Best Chicken Caprese
For chicken caprese
- Chicken cutlets (about 1 1/2 pounds)
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
- Tomatoes (2–3, sliced): Pat dry if very juicy.
- Mozzarella cheese (6–8 ounces, sliced): Melts beautifully.
- Fresh basil leaves: Add at the end.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced, optional)
- Salt + black pepper
- Balsamic-style glaze (optional): Light drizzle
How to Make Chicken Caprese
- 1. Sear: Season and sear chicken cutlets over medium-high heat 3–4 minutes per side.
- 2. Garlic (optional): Stir in garlic 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 3. Top: Add tomato slices, then mozzarella.
- 4. Melt: Cover 2–4 minutes until cheese melts and chicken is hot through.
- 5. Finish: Add basil and drizzle lightly with balsamic-style glaze if using.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Caprese
- Cover to melt: A lid melts cheese fast without overcooking.
- Add basil last: Keeps it bright.
- Dry tomatoes: Helps prevent extra liquid.
Variations & Substitutions
- Herby: Add oregano or Italian seasoning.
- Tomato swap: Use roasted tomatoes for deeper flavor.
- Cheese swap: Provolone works in a pinch.
Make-Ahead & Freezing
Fridge: 3 days. Reheat covered on low heat. Freezing isn’t ideal with tomatoes, but you can freeze cooked chicken cutlets alone up to 2 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Roasted asparagus
- Rice or pasta
- Crusty bread for dipping
- Arugula salad
Reader Review
Melty, fresh, and so fast — this one’s going into our weekly rotation.
Chicken Caprese Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Italian-American
Diet: Gluten-Free (naturally)
If you make this Chicken Caprese, leave a rating, a comment, and share it. How would you customize yours?