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Sheet Pan Caprese Chicken Recipe: A Delightful One-Pan Wonder

When it comes to effortless dinners that are bursting with flavour, the Sheet Pan Caprese Chicken shines like a beacon of culinary delight. This recipe beautifully marries the classic flavours of a Caprese salad with the convenience of a one-pan meal, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends alike. Here’s how you can create this delicious dish that delights both the palate and the eye.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Caprese Toppings:

• 200g cherry tomatoes, halved
• 150g fresh mozzarella, diced
• Fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven:
   Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (fan oven 180°C). This will ensure the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that lovely golden brown colour.

2. Prepare the Marinade:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This simple mixture will infuse the chicken with flavour.

3. Coat the Chicken:
   Place the chicken breasts on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with olive oil. Brush the marinade generously over each piece of chicken, ensuring they’re well-coated.

4. Add the Veggies:
   Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken. The tomatoes will roast beautifully, releasing their juices and adding sweetness to the dish.

5. Bake:
   Place the sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 75°C. If your chicken is particularly thick, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

6. Add Mozzarella and Basil:
   In the last 5 minutes of cooking, remove the sheet from the oven and sprinkle the diced mozzarella over the chicken and tomatoes. Return to oven to allow the cheese to melt beautifully. Once melted, sprinkle with the fresh basil right before serving.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
   For an added touch of indulgence, drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving. This not only elevates the dish in terms of presentation but also adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes.

Tips and Variations

• Substitutions: Feel free to swap out chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer a juicier cut of meat. You can also use slices of eggplant or courgette for a vegetarian version.
• Make it Ahead: This dish is fantastic for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables a day in advance — just be sure to add the mozzarella and basil closer to serving time.
• Serve it Right: Pair your Sheet Pan Caprese Chicken with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the juices. A glass of crisp white wine would also complement the meal beautifully.

Conclusion

The Sheet Pan Caprese Chicken Recipe epitomises the joy of simple, fresh ingredients coming together in harmony. Not only is it an easy dish to prepare, but it also delivers on flavour and presentation. With its vibrant colours and mouth-watering aromas, this recipe is sure to become a firm favourite in your household. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful one-pan wonder!

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