Are you ready to make a dish that’s as colorful as it is delicious? My One-Pan Caprese Chicken Thighs are bursting with flavor from juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and melty mozzarella, all mixed together in one easy skillet! Trust me, this recipe is so simple to whip up, you’ll want to have it on your dinner table every week!

Cook Time: 20

Prep Time: 15

Yields: 4

Calories: 790

Simple Ingredients for Delicious One-Pan Caprese Chicken Thighs

To make thes One-Pan Caprese Chicken Thighs, you’ll need a handful of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather for this delightful dish that takes inspiration from the classic caprese salad:

8 boneless skinless chicken thighs: These will be the star of the show,juicy and tender.
Salt and freshly ground pepper: Seasoning is key,so use it to your taste.
3 tablespoons good quality balsamic vinegar: This will add a tangy sweetness that you’ll love.
1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth: To keep it moist and add flavor.
1 tablespoon tomato paste: This will help thicken the sauce and add a rich tomato flavor.
1 lemon, zested and juiced, divided: The zest is for aroma, while the juice adds brightness.
1 teaspoon honey: Just a hint of sweetness to balance the acidity.
5 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings warmth and depth to the dish.
1 tablespoon minced fresh basil: Fresh herbs make everything better!
2 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking the chicken and adding healthy fats.
2 cups cherry tomatoes: These will burst with flavor as they cook.
A pinch of salt: Just a little more for the tomatoes.
4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese: This melty goodness is the perfect finishing touch.
Torn fresh basil leaves for garnish: To brighten up the presentation and enhance the flavor.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to whip up a comforting meal that’s full of flavor and color.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making One-pan Caprese Chicken Thighs

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your amazing One-Pan Caprese Chicken Thighs:

Prepare the Chicken: Pat your chicken thighs dry using paper towels, then sprinkle both sides generously with salt and pepper. This step ensures a flavorful crust.

Mix the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl,whisk together the balsamic vinegar,chicken broth,tomato paste,lemon juice (don’t forget to save some zest for later!),honey,minced garlic,and 1 tablespoon of minced basil. Add in the chicken thighs and toss well to coat everything. If you have time, let it marinate in the fridge for up to 4 hours – it will make a difference in flavor.

Cook the Chicken: Heat a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and its marinade to the pan. Bring it to a gentle boil, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes. After that, flip the chicken over and turn the heat back up to medium. Cook uncovered until the chicken is no longer pink at the center (about 5 to 7 minutes more). An instant-read thermometer should register at least 165°F (74°C).

Sauté the Tomatoes: Remove the chicken and juices from the skillet, placing them on a serving platter. Keep them warm by covering with foil. Wipe out the skillet, then add olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, toss in the cherry tomatoes. Cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to let them blister, then stir gently and continue cooking for another 2 minutes. Sprinkle the tomatoes with a pinch of salt.

Finish and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet, pouring the blistered tomatoes over the top. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and finish with the reserved lemon zest and any more torn basil leaves. Serve warm, and enjoy this vibrant, delicious meal!

This recipe brings the rich flavors of caprese right into a hearty main dish, making it a perfect dinner choice any day of the week.

Serving and Storage Tips for One-Pan Caprese Chicken Thighs

Once your One-Pan Caprese Chicken Thighs are ready, it’s time to think about how to serve and store them. This dish is colorful and can be the centerpiece of any meal. Here are some serving suggestions:

Serving Size: This recipe yields about 4 servings,making it perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Garnishing: To elevate the presentation, sprinkle some torn fresh basil leaves on top before serving. A drizzle of extra balsamic vinegar can also add a lovely finish and extra flavor.
Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3 to 4 days. This makes it a great option for meal prep or fast lunches.
Reheating: When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, preventing the chicken from drying out.
Freezing: While fresh is best, you can freeze leftover chicken and tomatoes. Just be sure to cool the dish fully before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

These tips will help you enjoy this flavorful dish over several days.

Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for One-Pan Caprese chicken Thighs

Cooking can be a learning experience, and having a few notes on hand can help you ensure your One-Pan Caprese Chicken Thighs come out perfectly every time.Here are some helpful tips:

Chicken Thighs: If you prefer chicken breasts, you can substitute them, but remember to adjust the cooking time. Chicken breasts usually cook faster than thighs, so keep an eye on them and use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C).
Tomato Burst: If your tomatoes aren’t bursting, it might very well be due to freshness. Use the ripest, juiciest cherry tomatoes you can find for the best flavor. If they still don’t blister, try increasing the heat slightly when sautéing them.
Balsamic Vinegar: The quality of the balsamic vinegar can substantially influence the dish’s flavor.A good-quality, thick balsamic adds richness and complexity. For a sweeter touch,try a balsamic glaze.
Additions: Feel free to customize! Adding ingredients like sliced bell peppers or spinach during the cooking process can create more variety and nutrition.
Too Saucy?: If you find the sauce too runny, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to thicken it up. Alternatively, whisk a teaspoon of cornstarch into a tablespoon of cold water and stir this mixture into the sauce to thicken it.

With these notes and troubleshooting tips, you’ll be well-equipped to manage any challenges and create a delicious meal every time!