Caprese Chicken with Zucchini and Tomatoes Skillet

Caprese Chicken with Zucchini and Tomatoes Skillet is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant zucchini, and juicy tomatoes cooked in a savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The freshness of the ingredients shines through, especially with melted mozzarella on top, creating an irresistible meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes just 45 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Fresh: With ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, every bite bursts with flavor.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein from chicken and plenty of vegetables, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it alone or pair it with spaghetti, brown rice, or quinoa for a complete meal.
• One-Pan Wonder: Prepare everything in a single skillet, which means less clean-up after dinner!

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Caprese Chicken with Zucchini and Tomatoes Skillet, you’ll need some essential tools that will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep skillet: Provides ample space for cooking all the ingredients together, ensuring even heat distribution.
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface for chopping vegetables and preparing the chicken safely.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife allows for precise cutting of ingredients, making prep work quicker.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurements of oils and seasonings for balanced flavors.

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Ingredients

Caprese Chicken Zucchini Skillet Recipe cooked in fresh tomato sauce, with melted fresh mozzarella cheese on top and garnished with basil.

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless & skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1 cubes)

For the Vegetables

• 2 lbs zucchini (cut into 1 cubes)
• 1.5 lb tomatoes (sliced)

For the Sauce

• 6 oz can tomato paste (low sodium)
• 7 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano

For Finishing Touches

• 9 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (thinly sliced)
• 2 tbsp oil (divided)
• 1/2 tsp salt (divided)
• Ground black pepper (to taste)
• Handful fresh basil (thinly sliced)

How to Make Caprese Chicken with Zucchini and Tomatoes Skillet

Step 1: Preheat the Skillet

Preheat a large deep skillet on medium heat. Swirl 1 tablespoon of oil to coat the bottom of the skillet.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken cubes along with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and ground black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring once halfway through until the chicken is lightly browned.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Move the chicken to one side of the skillet, leaving an empty space over the burner. Add another tablespoon of oil and minced garlic to that space. Sauté for about 30 seconds while stirring frequently until fragrant.

Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Mixture

Add sliced tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, another 1/4 teaspoon salt, and half of the sliced basil into the skillet. Cook this tomato pile mixture for approximately 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Add Zucchini

Stir in the zucchini cubes until everything is well combined. Cover the skillet and cook on low-medium heat for about 12 minutes until zucchini is tender.

Step 6: Melt Mozzarella

Lay slices of mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the mixture in the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover again, and let simmer for an additional 5 minutes until cheese melts beautifully.

Step 7: Serve

Sprinkle remaining basil and ground black pepper on top before serving hot. Enjoy your Caprese Chicken with Zucchini and Tomatoes Skillet alone or alongside spaghetti, Instant Pot brown rice, or Instant Pot quinoa!

How to Serve Caprese Chicken with Zucchini and Tomatoes Skillet

This flavorful dish is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy it in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

With Spaghetti

• Serve the chicken mixture over a bed of spaghetti for a classic Italian-inspired meal. The noodles complement the fresh tomato sauce beautifully.

Over Instant Pot Brown Rice

• For a wholesome, hearty option, serve the Caprese chicken over a mound of Instant Pot brown rice. The nutty flavor of the rice pairs well with the dish.

Accompanied by Quinoa

• Pair this skillet with fluffy quinoa for a protein-packed side. It adds texture and absorbs the delicious sauce perfectly.

With Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread on the side. Guests can use it to soak up the rich tomato sauce, making every bite enjoyable.

Topped with Extra Basil

• Garnish each serving with additional fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch. This enhances both appearance and flavor.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy it straight from the skillet as a light yet satisfying meal. It’s packed with veggies and proteins, making it fulfilling on its own.

How to Perfect Caprese Chicken with Zucchini and Tomatoes Skillet

Making this dish even better is simple with a few extra tips.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Opt for ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and vibrant zucchini for maximum flavor.
• Cut uniform pieces: Ensure all chicken and vegetable pieces are cut to similar sizes to promote even cooking.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your dish before serving; feel free to add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
• Let it rest: Allow the skillet to sit off heat for a few minutes after cooking. This helps flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding other herbs like thyme or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftover skillet in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for easy reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Caprese Chicken with Zucchini and Tomatoes Skillet

Complementing this dish with sides can enhance your meal further. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Garlic Bread
   A perfect crunchy side that’s great for dipping into the sauce.

2. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.

3. Mixed Green Salad
   A refreshing salad with lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the chicken dish.

4. Roasted Asparagus
   Tender asparagus spears roasted until crispy provide a delightful textural contrast.

5. Cauliflower Rice
   A low-carb option that soaks up sauce while adding bulk to your meal.

6. Mashed Sweet Potatoes
   Creamy sweet potatoes offer a hint of sweetness that complements savory flavors wonderfully.

7. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Charred corn adds a fun and seasonal element perfect for summer meals.

8. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles)
   For a lighter version, serve zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil and garlic alongside your skillet dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Caprese Chicken with Zucchini and Tomatoes Skillet, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls for the best results.

• Skipping Ingredient Prep: Not cutting ingredients uniformly can lead to uneven cooking. Always cut chicken and vegetables into similar sizes for consistent cooking.
• Overcooking Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Follow the timing closely and check for doneness to keep it juicy and tender.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season properly can result in bland flavors. Don’t forget to add salt, pepper, and herbs at every stage of cooking.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or low-quality ingredients diminishes taste. Opt for fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes for a vibrant dish.
• Rushing the Tomato Pile: Cooking the tomato mixture too quickly can result in underdeveloped flavors. Give it enough time to simmer for a rich taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Caprese Chicken with Zucchini and Tomatoes Skillet

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags with as much air removed as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Caprese Chicken with Zucchini and Tomatoes Skillet

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Caprese Chicken with Zucchini and Tomatoes Skillet.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.

What if I don’t have fresh mozzarella?

You can use shredded mozzarella or another type of cheese if fresh mozzarella is unavailable. Just ensure it melts well.

How do I customize my Caprese Chicken with Zucchini and Tomatoes Skillet?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach based on your preference. Different herbs like thyme or parsley can also enhance flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat when ready to serve.

What should I serve with Caprese Chicken with Zucchini and Tomatoes Skillet?

This dish pairs wonderfully with spaghetti, rice, or quinoa. A simple green salad can also complement it nicely.

Final Thoughts

The Caprese Chicken with Zucchini and Tomatoes Skillet is not just flavorful but also versatile. It allows you to experiment with various ingredients while enjoying a healthy meal packed with nutrition. Try this recipe today, and feel free to customize it according to your tastes!