Caprese Skillet Chicken Thighs: Juicy, Cheesy, and Bursting with Flavor

Few things bring as much joy to the dinner table as a skillet full of golden, juicy chicken topped with melty mozzarella, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil. Inspired by the classic Caprese salad, these Caprese Skillet Chicken Thighs transform those bright Italian flavors into a satisfying, one-pan main dish.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights—you only need 10 minutes of prep and about half an hour of cooking. It’s colorful, hearty, and looks like something straight out of a trattoria, but it’s simple enough to make at home even on a weeknight.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Caprese Skillet Chicken Thighs Recipe

One-Skillet Wonder – Fewer dishes, more flavor. Everything comes together in one oven-safe skillet.

Classic Caprese Flavors – Sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil create the perfect Italian-inspired combination.

Juicy Chicken Thighs – Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay tender and flavorful, even after baking.

Quick and Easy – Only 10 minutes of prep time makes this a weeknight hero.

Versatile Dish – Serve it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Caprese Skillet Chicken Thighs Recipe Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful skillet dinner:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided – Adds richness and helps sear the chicken.
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Juicy, flavorful, and quick to cook.
• 1½ tablespoons Italian seasoning, divided – A blend of herbs that gives instant Italian flair.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – Adds just a touch of heat.
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Essential seasoning.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – Makes the pan sauce silky and rich.
• ¼ cup chicken stock – Adds flavor and keeps everything moist.
• ½ pint cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered – Sweet, juicy, and colorful.
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced into ¼-inch rounds – Creamy, melty topping for the chicken.
• ¼ teaspoon additional crushed red pepper (optional) – For those who love extra spice.
• Fresh basil sprigs, for garnish – The finishing touch for a Caprese-inspired dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set oven to 425°F (220°C) to get it ready for baking.

2. Season the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, drizzle chicken thighs with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

3. Sear the Chicken

Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.

4. Add Sauce Components

Remove skillet from heat. Stir in butter and chicken stock. Scatter cherry tomatoes around the chicken thighs.

5. Top with Mozzarella

Place mozzarella slices over each chicken thigh. Sprinkle with the remaining Italian seasoning and optional extra red pepper flakes.

6. Bake Until Done

Transfer skillet to the oven. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the mozzarella is melted and bubbly.

7. Rest and Serve

Remove skillet from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Spoon the pan juices over the chicken, garnish with fresh basil, and serve warm.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Use a Cast Iron Skillet – It retains heat beautifully and transitions seamlessly from stovetop to oven.

Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet – Give each chicken thigh space to brown properly.

Check Internal Temperature – Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F.

Finish with Balsamic Glaze – A drizzle adds tangy sweetness that enhances the Caprese flavors.

Recommended Equipment

Large Oven-Safe Skillet – Essential for searing and baking in one pan.

Mixing Bowl – For seasoning the chicken.

Cutting Board & Knife – For prepping tomatoes and mozzarella.

Tongs or Spatula – For turning chicken during searing.

Oven – To finish the dish with bubbling cheese and roasted tomatoes.

How to Serve Caprese Skillet Chicken Thighs

This dish features juicy chicken thighs simmered in a tomato-basil sauce and topped with melty mozzarella — a cozy, Italian-inspired main that’s easy to dress up or down. Here are some great ways to serve it:

Over Pasta – A classic choice like spaghetti or penne lets the sauce shine.

With Rice or Quinoa – Great for soaking up all the rich, herby juices.

Alongside Crusty Bread – Use rustic bread or focaccia to mop up every drop.

With a Side Salad – A crisp green salad adds freshness and balances the richness.

What To Pair With Caprese Skillet Chicken Thighs

From Cooking Day’s recipe collection, here are perfect pairings:

Crispy Garlic Potato Rings – I Had to Stop Myself From Eating the Whole Batch

These crispy rings add crunch and garlic flavor that complements the soft, saucy chicken beautifully.

Crisp Apple Celery Salad with Maple-Dijon Dressing: Side Dish You’ll Love

This fresh, tangy salad lightens up the meal and cuts through the cheesy richness of the Caprese chicken.

Buttery Pistachio Rolls with Chocolate – Made with Croissant Dough

A sweet-savory bread-style treat that’s rich, flaky, and great for rounding out the meal with something a little indulgent.

Diet-Friendly Options

Gluten-Free – Naturally gluten-free, just pair with gluten-free pasta or grains.

Low-Carb/Keto – Serve with cauliflower rice or roasted zucchini noodles.

Dairy-Free – Skip the mozzarella or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

High-Protein – Add an extra portion of chicken or serve with lentils on the side.

Best Ways to Store

Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer – Not ideal due to the mozzarella, but you can freeze the chicken without the cheese topping.

Reheat – Warm gently in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave individual servings.

Recipe Variations

Burrata Upgrade – Swap mozzarella for burrata for a creamier finish.

Add Greens – Toss in spinach or arugula before baking.

Spicy Kick – Add sliced fresh chili peppers for extra heat.

Tomato Medley – Use multi-colored cherry tomatoes for a vibrant look.

These Caprese Skillet Chicken Thighs are the ultimate weeknight dinner hero—juicy chicken, creamy cheese, sweet tomatoes, and fresh basil all baked in one skillet. It’s easy, colorful, and satisfying, with flavors that transport you straight to Italy.

Whether you serve it over pasta, with a side salad, or simply with crusty bread, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

So next time you need a quick, impressive dinner, grab some chicken thighs and fresh mozzarella—this one-pan wonder has your back.

Common Questions Answered