Best caprese hasselback chicken recipe

Here’s a simple recipe for Caprese Hasselback Chicken:

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and pat dry the chicken breasts. Make several thin slices (hasselback-style) across each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, ensuring to get the seasoning into the cuts.
4. In a small bowl, mix the cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella slices, and chopped basil.
5. Carefully stuff each chicken breast with the tomato, mozzarella, and basil mixture, distributing it evenly into the cuts.
6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
9. During the last few minutes of baking, you can add extra mozzarella slices on top to melt and become golden brown.
10. Once the chicken is cooked, drizzle balsamic glaze over the top.
11. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serve your Caprese Hasselback Chicken with a side of your choice, such as a salad or roasted vegetables. Enjoy your delicious and flavorful meal!

FAQs

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for the Caprese Hasselback Chicken recipe?

• Certainly! While the recipe traditionally calls for chicken breasts, you can adapt it to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may require a slightly longer duration in the oven.

• What can I serve as a side dish with Caprese Hasselback Chicken?

• Complement the flavors of the chicken by serving it with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of quinoa or couscous. The fresh and vibrant components of the Caprese stuffing pair well with a variety of sides.

• Is it necessary to use balsamic glaze, or can I substitute it with balsamic vinegar?

• While balsamic glaze adds a sweet and syrupy finish, you can substitute it with balsamic vinegar. Simply reduce the balsamic vinegar in a saucepan over low heat until it thickens slightly. Drizzle the reduced balsamic vinegar over the chicken for a similar flavor profile.

• Can I prepare Caprese Hasselback Chicken ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the hasselback chicken ahead of time by stuffing the cuts in the chicken and refrigerating it until ready to bake. However, it’s recommended to add the tomatoes and mozzarella just before baking to maintain their freshness and prevent excess moisture in the dish.