What does caprese mean?

Caprese means “denoting a salad of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.” The salad is named after Capri, Italy where it is believed to have originated from. This dish is inspired by that classic salad! It takes the flavors and ingredients and puts them into a delicious pasta. So good! If you're looking for another caprese recipe, check out my Hasselback Caprese Salad , Burrata Caprese Salad , or Tortellini Caprese Salad . Can you see I have a thing for caprese salads??

How to best store this recipe?

This recipe is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 5 days - 1 week!

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, absolutely! I think this would be a great recipe to freeze. Simply transfer to a freezer safe container or bag and place in the freezer. It will keep for a couple of months!

Do I have to use mozzarella pearls?

Nope! Any fresh mozzarella will work here. If you can't find the mini mozzarella pearls, just chop up any fresh mozzarella. It will work exactly the same!

Chicken Caprese Pasta - Wellness by Kay

Description

Chicken Caprese Pasta is an easy, healthy, and delicious 30 minute dinner recipe! Made with penne pasta, chicken, juicy tomatoes, melty fresh mozzarella cheese, balsamic vinegar and glaze, and fresh basil … this pasta dish is flavorful, light, and creamy all at the same time. It is protein packed, filling, and satisfying too!

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz pasta
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, about 1.3 lbs
2 tbsp olive oil, separated
2 tbsp minced garlic
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1 1/2 cups halved grape tomatoes
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls
2 tbsp balsamic glaze
Salt
Black pepper

Instructions

Cut the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized cubes.
Then prepare the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set aside.
Meanwhile, add 1 tbsp olive oil to a large skillet on the stove over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the chicken and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is cooked through, about 8 minutes. To get the chicken crispy and golden brown, let sit undisturbed for a few minutes on each side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet.
Turn the heat to low and add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, minced garlic, dried basil, and dried oregano to the pan. Sauté for about 1 minute. Add in the halved cherry tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Sauté on low for about 5 minutes, until the tomatoes soften and become saucy. Then add in the balsamic vinegar and combine. Cook for another 1 minute.
Add the cooked pasta and cooked chicken to the skillet with the tomatoes. Combine thoroughly.
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and balsamic glaze. If you want the cheese to get nice and melty you could keep the skillet on a very low heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve and enjoy!

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