Italian Caprese Stuffed Chicken Recipe
A delicious low-carb, keto-friendly chicken dish bursting with classic Italian flavors.
KEY INFO
- Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-50 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 385 per serving
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 48g
- Net Carbs: 4g
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Dietary Tags: Low-carb, Keto-friendly, Gluten-free
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Oven-safe skillet (or baking dish)
- Toothpicks
- Meat thermometer
- Kitchen mallet (optional)
INGREDIENTS
Chicken Base:
- 4 large chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced (or provolone)
- 2 Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced (or 12 cherry tomatoes)
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Balsamic Glaze:
- ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar substitute (optional)
METHOD
-
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Create a deep pocket in each chicken breast by cutting horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through
- Season both inside and outside of chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and dried basil
-
- Layer each pocket with mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil leaves
- Secure openings with toothpicks
- Heat skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tbsp oil
- Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden
- Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
- While chicken bakes, simmer balsamic vinegar and sweetener until reduced by half (5-7 minutes)
CRUCIAL TIPS
- Don’t overstuff the chicken – less is more
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning
- Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving
- Remove toothpicks before eating
STORAGE & SCALING
- Keeps in fridge: 3 days
- Freezer-friendly: Up to 3 months
- To reheat: 350°F for 15-20 minutes
- Recipe doubles easily for meal prep
VARIATIONS
- Mediterranean: Add spinach and feta
- Pesto Lover’s: Replace basil leaves with pesto
- Prosciutto-Wrapped: Wrap outside with prosciutto before cooking
COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID
- Cutting all the way through the chicken
- Skipping the searing step
- Not checking internal temperature
- Overcooking until dry
This recipe combines the beloved flavors of Caprese salad with juicy chicken for a keto-friendly meal that feels indulgent while staying low-carb. Perfect for special occasions or an elevated weeknight dinner.
