Description
Succulent Caprese Hasselback Chicken blends Italian flavors with elegant presentation, creating a mouthwatering masterpiece that elevates weeknight dinner. Layers of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil nestled between tender chicken slices promise a delightful culinary experience you won’t soon forget.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Seasonings and Oils:
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) paprika
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) black pepper
Toppings and Garnishes:
- 4 ounces (113 g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch slices
- 1 Roma tomato, cut into slices and then cut in half
- fresh basil, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper and heat the oven to 400°F, creating an ideal cooking environment for the chicken.
- Carefully create 5-6 evenly spaced vertical cuts along each chicken breast, ensuring not to slice completely through the meat.
- Craft a flavor-packed seasoning blend by mixing oil, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small mixing bowl.
- Thoroughly coat the chicken’s exterior and interior slits with the aromatic seasoning mixture, ensuring deep flavor penetration.
- Strategically tuck alternating mozzarella cheese slices and halved tomato pieces into each precisely cut slit, creating a visually appealing and tasty presentation.
- Transfer the prepared chicken to the lined baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, monitoring until the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F.
- While the chicken roasts, prepare the balsamic reduction by pouring vinegar into a saucepan and heating over medium-high heat.
- Bring the vinegar to a rapid boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring periodically until the liquid reduces by half and thickens to a syrup-like consistency.
- Remove the reduced vinegar from heat and incorporate honey, creating a rich and glossy balsamic drizzle.
- Once chicken is fully cooked, garnish with fresh basil leaves and generously drizzle with the honey-infused balsamic reduction.
- Serve immediately, showcasing the beautifully layered and flavor-packed Caprese Hasselback Chicken.
Notes
- Carefully choose chicken breasts of similar size and thickness to ensure even cooking and consistent appearance.
- Slice the chicken slowly and gently to prevent cutting through completely, keeping the base intact for a beautiful Hasselback presentation.
- Use a sharp knife and cut perpendicular to the cutting board when creating slits to maintain clean, precise openings.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help the oil and spices adhere better and create a more flavorful exterior.
- Select fresh, ripe tomatoes and high-quality mozzarella for maximum flavor and texture in the dish.
- Monitor balsamic reduction closely to prevent burning, as it can quickly go from perfectly reduced to scorched.
- Opt for low-moisture mozzarella to prevent excess liquid and ensure a crispy, golden cheese topping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 52g
- Cholesterol: 140mg