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

Caprese Skillet Chicken Thighs

Czarryy
Juicy chicken thighs seared until golden, baked with sweet cherry tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, then finished with fresh basil. A colorful, garden-inspired one-skillet dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-Inspired, Summer Skillet Dish
Servings 6
Calories 390 kcal

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Cutting board & knife
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1½ tablespoons Italian seasoning, divided
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup chicken stock
  • ½ pint cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
  • ¼ teaspoon additional crushed red pepper (optional)
  • Fresh basil sprigs, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat Oven
    Set oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Season the Chicken
    In a mixing bowl, drizzle chicken thighs with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
  • 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 browned.
  • Add Sauce Components
    Remove skillet from heat. Stir in butter and chicken stock. Scatter cherry tomatoes around the chicken.
  • Top with Mozzarella
    Place mozzarella slices over each chicken thigh. Sprinkle with the remaining Italian seasoning and, if desired, extra crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper.
  • Bake Until Done
    Transfer skillet to the oven. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and mozzarella is melted and bubbly.
  • Rest and Serve
    Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes. Spoon the pan juices over the chicken, garnish with fresh basil sprigs, and serve warm.

Notes

Pro Tips & Variations

  • Use multi-color tomatoes: Yellow, red, and orange cherry tomatoes make this dish extra vibrant.
  • Add balsamic glaze: A drizzle just before serving enhances the caprese flavors.
  • Swap the cheese: Burrata or provolone can be used in place of mozzarella.
  • Meal prep idea: Cook the chicken ahead and reheat in the oven just before serving with fresh basil.
  • Extra greens: Add spinach or arugula to the skillet before baking for a veggie boost.
Keyword baked chicken thighs, caprese chicken skillet, cherry tomato chicken, Italian chicken dinner, mozzarella chicken