Chicken Caprese Sheet Pan

 

This Chicken Caprese Sheet Pan recipe is a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that combines tender chicken, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s a perfect dish for a simple weeknight dinner or a special meal with minimal effort. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken tenderloins
• 6 oz cherry tomatoes
• 4 oz mozzarella pearls
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Balsamic glaze
• Fresh basil leaves (chopped)
• Sea salt and freshly ground pepper (to taste)

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Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Heat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with oil.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

   • In a large bowl, mix together mayonnaise and pesto.
   • Add the chicken tenderloins to the bowl and stir until each piece is evenly coated. The mayo helps keep the chicken moist on the inside while creating a crispy outside.

3. Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes:

   • In a small bowl, toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat.

4. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:

   • Place the chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring that they do not touch each other for even cooking.
   • Scatter the seasoned cherry tomatoes around the chicken.

5. Bake:

   • Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is golden and cooked through, and the tomatoes are soft and slightly blistered.

6. Finish the Dish:

   • Once out of the oven, sprinkle the chicken with mozzarella pearls and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
   • Garnish with fresh chopped basil leaves for a burst of freshness.

7. Serve:

   • Serve the dish hot or cold, either on a bed of arugula lightly dressed with olive oil and lemon or with a side of roasted vegetables.

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Notes:

• Pesto: You can use homemade pesto or store-bought. Some great store-bought options include Kirkland (Costco brand) or Barilla, which are widely available.
• Balsamic Glaze: If you're following a keto diet, make sure your balsamic glaze doesn't contain sugar. You can either buy a sugar-free version or make your own reduction at home (refer to the blog for instructions).
• Variations: This dish is versatile—try it with different types of chicken (such as breasts) or vegetables (like zucchini or bell peppers) based on your preferences.

This Chicken Caprese Sheet Pan is a simple yet delicious dish that comes together quickly and packs plenty of flavor with minimal effort. Enjoy!