Get ready to transform your dinner routine with these irresistible Skillet Caprese Chicken Bites that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched hills of Italy! In just 25 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that's bursting with fresh flavors, melty mozzarella, and a tantalizing balsamic glaze that will make your family beg for seconds. Whether you're a busy home cook or a culinary enthusiast, this recipe promises to be your new go-to meal that's both impressive and incredibly easy to prepare.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Cube the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, halve the cherry tomatoes, and set aside the mozzarella balls. This will help streamline the cooking process.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat up for about a minute until it shimmers.
- Once the oil is hot, add the cubed chicken breast to the skillet. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the cherry tomatoes. After the chicken is done, push it to one side of the skillet and add the halved cherry tomatoes to the other side. Cook the tomatoes for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
- Next, add the mozzarella balls to the skillet, mixing them in with the chicken and tomatoes. Allow them to heat through for another 2-3 minutes, until the mozzarella starts to melt slightly.
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the chicken, tomatoes, and mozzarella mixture, stirring to combine everything evenly. Cook for an additional minute to let the flavors meld together.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves, adding a burst of flavor and color to your Skillet Caprese Chicken Bites.
- Serve the dish warm, either on its own or with a side of crusty bread, and enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Choose high-quality ingredients: Use fresh mozzarella balls, ripe cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil for the most authentic flavor.
- Ensure even chicken cubes: Cut chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces to guarantee even cooking and consistent texture.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet: Cook chicken in batches if necessary to achieve a nice golden-brown sear instead of steaming the meat.
- Watch the heat: Medium-high heat is crucial for perfectly seared chicken and softened tomatoes without burning.
- Let mozzarella just start to melt: Avoid fully melting the cheese to maintain its beautiful texture and prevent stringiness.
- Fresh basil is key: Add basil leaves at the very end to preserve their bright, aromatic flavor and vibrant green color.
- Serve immediately: These chicken bites are best enjoyed hot, straight from the skillet, to experience the optimal blend of flavors and textures.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg
