Balsamic Caprese Chicken

This Balsamic Caprese Chicken takes baked chicken thighs and cooks them in a sweet balsamic glaze with garlic, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and plenty of melted mozzarella on top. The result is a rich, vibrant chicken caprese dish where every bite is coated in that glossy, flavourful reduction.

Many versions add the vinegar right at the end, but this method lets the glaze thicken slowly in the oven so it clings beautifully to the chicken. It is a more flavourful, more satisfying approach to a balsamic glazed caprese chicken recipe, and pairing it with a crisp Honey Dijon Apple Bacon Cranberry Salad brings a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy finish.

What Makes This Recipe So Good

This Balsamic Caprese Chicken stands out because the glaze is cooked slowly with the chicken instead of being splashed in at the end. The result is a richer, fuller flavour that clings to every bite and makes this chicken caprese feel far more satisfying than the usual quick version. Letting the tomatoes burst in the pan also builds a natural sweetness that balances the tang of the balsamic beautifully.

Another reason this balsamic glazed caprese chicken recipe works so well is the layering of texture and freshness. You get juicy baked chicken thighs, creamy melted mozzarella, and bright basil all in one dish, with that glossy balsamic glaze tying it together. It is a simple method with a big payoff, giving you a dinner that tastes restaurant worthy without much effort.

What Goes Into Balsamic Caprese Chicken

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This recipe uses simple ingredients but treats them with care so you get a balanced mix of sweet balsamic glaze, juicy chicken, and fresh caprese flavours.

• Chicken Thighs: Bone-in thighs stay naturally juicy and hold up well to longer baking, which helps the balsamic reduction thicken and coat the meat properly.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Reduces into a glossy glaze that brings acidity and sweetness, giving the dish its signature balsamic caprese flavour.
• Fresh Mozzarella: Melts into a creamy layer on top of the chicken, adding richness that balances the tang of the glaze.
• Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: Roast until they burst, creating natural sweetness that blends into the sauce and enhances the classic caprese profile.

Note: Please see recipe card at the bottom for a full list of ingredients with measurements.

How To Make Balsamic Caprese Chicken

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 210°C (410°F) and prepare an oven-safe skillet so you can move straight from stovetop to oven without extra dishes.

2. Season the Chicken: Coat the chicken thighs with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, making sure every piece is evenly covered for full flavour.

3. Sear the Thighs: Heat oil in your skillet and sear the chicken on both sides for a few minutes until golden, then transfer the pieces to a plate and drain excess oil.

4. Build the Glaze: Sauté the garlic until fragrant, then add the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar, letting it simmer until it thickens into a glossy reduction.

5. Coat and Bake: Return the chicken to the pan and turn each piece in the glaze, add one cup of whole tomatoes around the thighs, then bake until fully cooked.

6. Add the Mozzarella: Place a slice of mozzarella on each thigh and return the pan to the oven until the cheese melts into a creamy layer.

7. Finish with Fresh Tomatoes: Halve the remaining tomatoes and spoon them over the melted cheese, then add a little glaze from the pan and sprinkle fresh basil.

8. Make Extra Glaze (Optional): Simmer balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a small pot until reduced by half, then drizzle over the chicken right before serving for a stronger finish.

The deep balsamic glaze and melted mozzarella in this Balsamic Caprese Chicken pair beautifully with sides that brighten the plate without overwhelming it. Crispy Broccoli Parmesan Fritters add a fun, crunchy texture and a savoury edge that balances the sweetness of the glaze. For something with a richer, earthier profile, Grilled Bruschetta Portobello Mushrooms echo the caprese flavours in a deeper, smoky way.

To complete the meal with a surprising but complementary contrast, Crispy Greek Lemon Smashed Potatoes bring a bright citrus note that cuts through the richness of the chicken and cheese. Together, these dishes create a fresh, satisfying spread that elevates your chicken caprese into something you could easily serve on a special night.

Tips For Making Balsamic Caprese Chicken

• Let the glaze simmer long enough to thicken before adding the chicken back in; it helps the flavour cling to every piece instead of running to the bottom of the pan.
• If your chicken thighs vary in size, tuck the smaller ones toward the center of the pan so they stay juicy while the larger pieces finish cooking.
• Tear the basil instead of chopping it when you garnish; it keeps the flavour fresher and gives the dish a more relaxed, rustic look.
• If you want deeper colour on the mozzarella, switch the oven to broil for the last minute, but keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t overdo it.

Recipe FAQ’s

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