Ingredients
- 4 Chicken breast (about 6 oz each), pounded to even thickness
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 2 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1/4 cup basil leaves, fresh
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze for drizzling
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional for seasoning)
For those with dietary preferences or restrictions, here are a few substitutions:
- Dairy-free cheese options: There are many high-quality, dairy-free mozzarella alternatives that melt beautifully and cater to those avoiding dairy.
Instructions
1. Preparing the Chicken: Start by brushing each chicken breast with olive oil. Then, season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano to taste. Marinate for at least 15 minutes to infuse the flavors. If you’re making your own balsamic glaze, gently simmer balsamic vinegar over low heat until it thickens and reduces by half. Let it cool.
2. Air Frying Technique: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not touching for even cooking. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the chicken and cook for another 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. Assembling the Caprese: Once the chicken is cooked, immediately top each breast with slices of fresh mozzarella. The residual heat will help melt the cheese. Then, add a layer of ripe tomato slices and fresh basil leaves on each.
4. Finishing Touches: Drizzle each chicken breast with balsamic glaze for that tangy, sweet finish. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the dish a gourmet look.
Notes
The key to perfect air fryer Caprese chicken is not overcrowding the basket. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets a nice exterior without losing moisture. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with toppings
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: air fryer caprese chicken