Caprese Chicken with Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Caprese Chicken with Smashed Potatoes is a simple yet delicious dish combining juicy chicken breasts, fresh mozzarella, and ripe tomatoes. Served with crispy smashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Hello, friend! Get ready to delight in a taste of Italy with this mouthwatering Caprese Chicken with Smashed Potatoes recipe. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a flavor explosion! We’re combining tender, juicy chicken breasts with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil for a classic Caprese twist.
To make it even more satisfying, we’re serving it with crispy smashed potatoes that are bursting with garlic and herbs. Trust me, this recipe is so easy and delicious that you’ll want to make it every week.
So, let’s grab our ingredients and get cooking!
Utensils You Need:
Gather these tools to create this delicious meal:
- Baking sheet
- Large pot
- Small bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
The Recipe
Caprese Chicken with Smashed Potatoes
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 4 slices tomato
- Fresh basil leaves
For the smashed potatoes:
- 1 pound baby potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound until they are about 1/2 inch thick.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella and tomato.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the smashed potatoes.
- In a large pot, boil potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain potatoes and place them on the baking sheet.
- Use a potato masher or fork to gently smash each potato until slightly flattened.
- Drizzle potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Top chicken with fresh basil leaves and serve with smashed potatoes.
Notes
- If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil or a pesto sauce.
- You can use any type of cheese you like, such as provolone or cheddar.
Cook method: Baking, Stovetop
Season: All seasons
Alternative Ingredients:
If you do not have the ingredients I listed above, do not worry. You can swap them out for the alternatives below:
| Ingredient | Alternative |
| Chicken breasts | Chicken thighs or boneless, skinless pork chops |
| Fresh mozzarella | Shredded mozzarella cheese |
| Baby potatoes | Any type of potato, cut into wedges |
What to Serve with Caprese Chicken with Smashed Potatoes:
You can pair this delicious Caprese Chicken with Smashed Potatoes with the following:
- A side of roasted or steamed vegetables.
- A crusty bread to soak up the juices.
- A glass of red wine, like a Chianti or Pinot Noir.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone, cheddar, or goat cheese.
Can I make the smashed potatoes ahead of time?
It’s best to smash and roast the potatoes just before serving for optimal crispness. However, you can pre-boil the potatoes and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or portobello mushrooms.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken and potatoes separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
