Baked Caprese Chicken Skillet – Easy One-Pan Dinner Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a skillet meal that goes from stovetop to oven to table—all in one pan. And when that dish happens to feature golden baked chicken, creamy mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil? Well, you’ve got a weeknight dinner that feels like a weekend treat. This Baked Caprese Chicken Skillet is exactly that: a cozy, flavor-packed meal that’s bursting with the bright, tangy notes of a classic Caprese salad, all nestled over a bed of perfectly cooked spaghetti and drizzled with just the right touch of balsamic glaze.

The first time I made this dish, I was trying to find a way to jazz up my usual baked chicken routine. We were craving something fresh but still hearty, and I had all the usual Caprese suspects in the fridge—pesto, mozzarella, tomatoes, and a bundle of fresh basil. I threw everything into a skillet, crossed my fingers, and thirty minutes later, we were digging into a dish that’s now part of our regular dinner rotation.

What I love most about this recipe is how little effort it takes to pull together something that looks and tastes like it came straight from a cozy Italian bistro. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. With just a few pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a meal that’s equal parts comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re feeding a family, entertaining guests, or meal prepping for the week, this baked Caprese chicken delivers every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a no-fuss, flavor-packed recipe that doesn’t skimp on elegance or heartiness, this Baked Caprese Chicken is the one for you. Here’s exactly why this dish is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Quick and Easy to Prepare
With just 5 minutes of prep and 25 minutes in the oven, this skillet dinner is weeknight-friendly and stress-free. You don’t need to babysit anything on the stove, and cleanup is minimal.

Classic Flavors, Elevated
The combination of juicy baked chicken, creamy mozzarella, and sweet tomatoes—balanced by the fresh punch of basil pesto and the tang of balsamic vinegar—is simply irresistible. It’s familiar, yet elevated.

Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
Even picky eaters can’t say no to cheesy chicken and pasta. It’s a satisfying dish that adults and kids alike will enjoy, making it perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

One Skillet Wonder
Everything (except the pasta) cooks in one skillet, which means fewer dishes and more time enjoying your meal. The baked method also keeps the chicken moist and juicy while letting the cheese melt into perfection.

Adaptable for All Seasons
Fresh tomatoes and basil scream summer, but this dish is hearty enough for colder months, too. Simply swap in cherry tomatoes and store-bought basil pesto when fresh produce isn’t at its peak.

Health Benefits

While it may taste indulgent, this baked Caprese chicken skillet also brings a few nutritional perks to the table.

Lean Protein from Chicken
Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, which helps build and repair muscle and keeps you full and satisfied long after dinner.

Heart-Healthy Olive Oil
The olive oil used in this recipe offers a dose of healthy monounsaturated fats, known to support heart health and reduce inflammation.

Antioxidants from Tomatoes
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to lower risks of certain cancers and improved skin health. Cooking them enhances their nutritional benefits even further.

Calcium-Rich Mozzarella
Fresh mozzarella not only adds creamy texture and flavor, but it’s also a good source of calcium, which is essential for bone health.

Fresh Basil and Pesto for Phytochemicals
Herbs like basil contain disease-fighting phytochemicals. Pesto brings additional antioxidants and healthy fats from its blend of nuts, garlic, and olive oil.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 917
• Fat: 43g
• Carbohydrates: 80g
• Protein: 51g
• Sugar: 9g

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dish together. Each ingredient plays an essential role in building those vibrant Caprese flavors.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The base of the dish; choose evenly sized pieces for even cooking.
• 1 cup basil pesto – Adds rich, herby flavor and keeps the chicken moist.
• 6 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced – Melts into a creamy topping that pairs beautifully with the tomato.
• 3 large tomatoes, sliced – Brings juicy freshness and that signature Caprese taste.
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes – Roasts into sweet bursts of flavor and adds depth to the dish.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps caramelize the tomatoes and adds richness.
• 12 oz spaghetti – The perfect pasta base to soak up all the pesto and juices.
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar – A tangy finishing touch that balances the creaminess of the cheese.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning each component.
• Fresh basil, for garnish – Adds color, freshness, and a beautiful aromatic finish.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

This recipe comes together in just a few straightforward steps. Don’t worry—it’s easy to follow, and I’ll guide you through every detail.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F
   While the oven heats, lightly grease an oven-safe skillet with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the chicken
   Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. This simple step builds the foundation for flavor.
3. Add pesto and toppings
   Place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of pesto over each one, spreading it out evenly. Then, layer each piece with a slice or two of mozzarella and a slice of tomato.
4. Surround with cherry tomatoes
   Scatter the cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the skillet. Drizzle them with the olive oil and give them a light seasoning of salt and pepper.
5. Bake the skillet
   Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20–22 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the cheese is melted and golden.
6. Cook the pasta
   While the chicken bakes, cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Drain and toss with the remaining pesto to coat.
7. Plate and finish
   Arrange a bed of pesto pasta on each plate. Top with one piece of baked chicken, spoon over the roasted cherry tomatoes, and drizzle with balsamic vinegar. Garnish with fresh basil for that final flourish.

How to Serve

This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but you can easily customize the presentation to suit your mood or occasion.

• Serve the chicken directly over pesto spaghetti for a classic, satisfying meal.
• For a lighter option, try it over zucchini noodles or a bed of baby spinach.
• Add a handful of arugula tossed in lemon juice for a bright, peppery side.

Pairing Suggestions

This dish has bold yet balanced flavors that pair well with a variety of sides and beverages.

• Side Dishes: Garlic bread, roasted asparagus, or a cucumber and mint salad all complement this dish beautifully.
• Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or a basil-cucumber mocktail enhances the fresh flavors.
• Kid-Friendly Options: Pair with buttered rolls, simple sautéed veggies, or fruit salad for little ones.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best parts of this dish is that it stores and reheats like a dream.

Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the pasta and chicken separate if possible to prevent sogginess.

Freezing
To freeze, allow the cooked chicken and tomatoes to cool completely. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Pasta is best made fresh but can also be frozen separately.

Reheating
Reheat chicken in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10–15 minutes. For a quicker option, use the microwave in 1-minute bursts, checking the internal temperature to ensure it’s heated evenly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your dish comes out perfect every time.

• Using watery mozzarella: Opt for fresh mozzarella and pat it dry before using to prevent a watery top.
• Skipping the seasoning: Even with flavorful pesto, always season your chicken and tomatoes for depth.
• Overcooking the chicken: Keep a meat thermometer handy to avoid dry chicken.
• Crowding the skillet: Give each chicken breast space to cook evenly and brown properly.
• Not draining pasta well: Excess water can dilute the pesto flavor—make sure to drain thoroughly.

Pro Tips

These extra tricks will help elevate your baked Caprese chicken from good to unforgettable.

1. Toast your spaghetti in a dry skillet for a minute before boiling—it adds a subtle nutty flavor.
2. Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan over the baked dish right before serving for extra richness.
3. Roast the cherry tomatoes separately for even more caramelization and sweetness.
4. Use homemade pesto if you have time—it brings even more freshness and flavor.
5. Finish with a touch of lemon zest to brighten the whole dish and complement the basil.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble everything in the skillet (except the pasta) a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bake when ready to eat.

What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
You can transfer the chicken to a baking dish after searing it on the stove. It works just as well.

Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto is convenient and works great. Just choose one with good quality ingredients and minimal preservatives.

Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

How can I make it vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with thick slices of eggplant or roasted portobello mushrooms. You’ll still get those delicious Caprese flavors.

What’s the best way to know the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be 165°F when fully cooked.

Can I add other veggies?
Definitely. Zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach would all be great additions.

Do I have to use balsamic vinegar?
While optional, the vinegar adds a tangy finish that balances the dish. You can use lemon juice for a citrusy alternative.

What pasta works best besides spaghetti?
Try linguine, penne, or even orzo. Anything that holds the pesto well will work.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Baked Caprese Chicken Skillet is everything you want in a dinner: fast, flavorful, satisfying, and beautiful on the plate. With juicy chicken, melty cheese, sweet tomatoes, and herby pesto all working together in harmony, it’s a dish that looks impressive but couldn’t be simpler to make. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining friends, this meal checks all the boxes.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Snap a photo and share it on social media—don’t forget to tag me so I can see your version! Have questions or tried a fun twist on the recipe? Drop a comment below and let’s chat. Happy cooking!

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