Print

Easy Low Carb Caprese Chicken Bake

easy low carb caprese chicken bake - featured image

A quick and easy low-carb chicken bake featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting and fresh dish comes together in under 35 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 medium-sized pieces)
  • 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella balls or sliced mozzarella
  • 1 cup (150 g) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup (10 g) fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped or torn
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, thyme, rosemary blend)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for heat or dairy-free cheese alternative

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Pat dry the chicken breasts and season both sides with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Optional: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown to lock in juices.
  4. Arrange the seared or raw chicken breasts evenly spaced in a baking dish (9×13 inch recommended).
  5. In a mixing bowl, toss halved cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  6. Spoon the tomato mixture evenly over each chicken breast, then top with slices or pieces of fresh mozzarella.
  7. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
  8. Remove from oven and drizzle balsamic glaze over the top. Sprinkle torn fresh basil leaves for garnish.
  9. Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Searing the chicken before baking helps seal in moisture and adds a golden crust but can be skipped to save time. Use fresh mozzarella for best creamy melt. Tent with foil if cheese browns too quickly. Let the dish rest before serving for juicier chicken. Adjust baking time if using chicken thighs. For dairy-free, swap mozzarella with plant-based cheese and use sugar-free balsamic glaze or omit it.

Nutrition

Keywords: low carb, chicken bake, Caprese, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, easy dinner, weeknight meal, healthy, gluten-free, keto-friendly