My Italian grandma taught me this recipe! Bless her soul! This one is a keeper!
Caprese Chicken Casserole is a harmonious blend of succulent chicken breasts, vibrant grape tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a symphony of herbs and spices, all topped with a decadent layer of melted mozzarella cheese. This dish captures the essence of Italian cuisine, marrying simplicity with sophistication to deliver a truly unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, Caprese Chicken Casserole is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
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Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 pieces |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Grape tomatoes, halved | 2 cups |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Balsamic vinegar | 1/4 cup |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Fresh basil leaves, chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Extra basil leaves for garnish | As needed |
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and sear them until they turn golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a greased baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
- Saute Garlic: In the same skillet used for searing chicken, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Add the halved grape tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, and dried basil to the skillet with garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.
- Pour Mixture Over Chicken: Pour the tomato mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the baking dish, ensuring that all pieces are well coated.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the chicken and tomato mixture, covering it evenly.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the chopped fresh basil leaves over the top. Garnish with additional basil leaves if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Caprese Chicken Casserole!
