Chicken breast with mozzarella, tomato, and basil for a light summer meal. Simple, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
# What You'll Need:
→ Chicken
01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon salt
04 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
05 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or dried oregano or basil)
→ Filling
06 - 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
07 - 2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
08 - 12 large fresh basil leaves
→ Finishing
09 - 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
10 - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
# Method:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
02 - Pat chicken breasts dry. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep pocket into the side of each breast, leaving the opposite side intact.
03 - Season chicken breasts inside and out with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs.
04 - Fill each breast with 1 to 2 slices of mozzarella, 2 to 3 tomato slices, and 3 basil leaves. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
05 - Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear breasts for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
06 - Transfer skillet to the oven or move chicken to prepared baking dish. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
07 - Remove chicken from oven. Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with additional basil.
