Can I make Chicken Caprese without an air fryer?

Yes. Sear the seasoned chicken breasts in a hot cast iron skillet for exactly 5 minutes, without moving them. Flip, transfer the skillet to a 400°F oven, and bake for 12 minutes. Add the mozzarella and broil until melted before topping with the tomato mixture.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Absolutely. Boneless skinless chicken thighs work beautifully. They may need an additional 2-4 minutes depending on thickness.

Can I prepare the tomato mixture ahead of time?

Yes. You can mix the tomatoes, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper several hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Can I use shredded mozzarella?

Fresh mozzarella gives the best texture and classic Caprese flavor, but shredded mozzarella or sliced provolone both work well.

Juicy Chicken Caprese | Charlotte Fashion Plate

Name: Juicy Chicken Caprese
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless chicken breasts; 2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 6 slices fresh mozzarella; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 10-12 fresh basil leaves; 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper, plus more for garnish; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper; 2 teaspoons balsamic glaze

Description

Juicy Chicken Caprese is an easy air fryer dinner topped with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and drizzled with balsamic glaze.

Ingredients

Scale

2 boneless chicken breasts
2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
6 slices fresh mozzarella
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
10–12 fresh basil leaves
1 teaspoon cracked black pepper, plus more for garnish
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
2 teaspoons balsamic glaze

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Instructions

Preheat your air fryer for 3-5 minutes.
Pat the chicken breasts dry and lightly brush both sides with a tablespoon of olive oil.
Season the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Place the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Air fry at 380°F (195°C) for 18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
While the chicken is air frying, combine the tomatoes, remaining olive oil, fresh basil, salt, cracked black pepper, and crushed red pepper.
Top each chicken breast with fresh mozzarella.
Return to the air fryer for 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese melts.
Transfer the chicken to a serving platter.
Spoon the tomato mixture over the chicken.
Finish with balsamic glaze, extra basil, and cracked black pepper before serving.
ENJOY!

Equipment

5.8 Quart Air Fryer

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6.0 Quart Turbo Air Fryer

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Notes

For the juiciest chicken, use an instant-read thermometer and remove the chicken from the air fryer when it reaches 160°F (71°C). It will continue cooking as it rests and reach the USDA-recommended 165°F (74°C).
If your chicken breasts are especially thick, pound them to an even thickness so they cook evenly.
Fresh mozzarella provides the best creamy texture and authentic Caprese flavor, but sliced mozzarella or shredded mozzarella can be substituted if needed.
For the freshest flavor, spoon the tomato and basil mixture over the chicken just before serving.
Finish with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze and additional fresh basil for the perfect restaurant-style presentation.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Easy
Cuisine: American