Description
This Stuffed Caprese Chicken Hasselback features juicy chicken breasts sliced Hasselback-style and stuffed generously with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil. Baked to perfection and finished with a drizzle of sweet balsamic glaze, this Italian-inspired dish offers a flavorful and visually appealing main course that’s both gluten-free and low carb.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Stuffing
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella slices
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil leaves (about 12 leaves)
To Serve
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the chicken evenly.
- Prepare Chicken Breasts: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut several slits (Hasselback style) across each chicken breast, making sure not to slice all the way through. These slits will hold the stuffing.
- Season the Chicken: Brush each chicken breast generously with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Stuff the Chicken: Insert slices of fresh mozzarella, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves into each slit, distributing the ingredients evenly for balanced flavor in every bite.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Finish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and drizzle each breast with balsamic glaze just before serving to add a sweet and tangy finish.
Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella logs or slices for the best melting and texture in the stuffing.
- Add a spoonful of pesto inside the slits before stuffing for an extra burst of flavor.
- Monitor the chicken closely towards the end of baking to avoid overcooking and dryness.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking to retain juices.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired