Description
This crispy Caprese chicken brings together golden pan-fried chicken thighs with fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil for a dish that’s crunchy, creamy, and bursting with fresh flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- A handful of fresh basil leaves
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with a wire rack.
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pound chicken thighs to even thickness. Dredge in flour, then egg, then panko mixture, pressing to coat.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to baking sheet.
- Top each piece with mozzarella slices and halved cherry tomatoes. Bake 10–12 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Remove from oven and top with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Let breaded chicken rest before frying to help coating stick.
- Use room-temperature mozzarella for better melting.
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with toppings
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
Keywords: crispy chicken, caprese, mozzarella chicken, Italian dinner, chicken with basil