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Keto Chicken Caprese Skillet - A Fresh, Fast, and Flavorful Weeknight Dinner

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 4 small chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs) or 4 boneless, skinless thighs
  • Salt and pepper: For seasoning, to taste
  • Garlic powder and Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon each
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, divided
  • Fresh garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  • Cherry or grape tomatoes: 1.5 cups, halved (or 2 medium tomatoes, sliced)
  • Fresh mozzarella: 8 ounces, sliced
  • Fresh basil: 1/2 cup leaves, torn or sliced
  • Balsamic vinegar: 2 tablespoons (or keto-friendly balsamic glaze)
  • Butter: 1 tablespoon (optional, for richness)
  • Red pepper flakes: A pinch, optional
  • Low-carb sweetener: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, to balance acidity)

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This helps create a flavorful crust.
  2. Heat the skillet: Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it shimmers, add the chicken.
  3. Sear to golden: Cook chicken 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until well browned and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Transfer to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
  4. Sauté the aromatics: Lower heat to medium. Add remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Stir 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn.
  5. Cook the tomatoes: Add tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Cook 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release juices.
  6. Build the pan sauce: Stir in balsamic vinegar, butter, and sweetener if using. Simmer 1–2 minutes to slightly thicken. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. For some heat, add red pepper flakes.
  7. Return the chicken: Nestle chicken back into the skillet, spooning sauce and tomatoes over the top.
  8. Add mozzarella: Top each piece with mozzarella slices. Cover the skillet and cook 1–2 minutes, just until the cheese melts.
  9. Finish with basil: Remove from heat and scatter basil over everything. If you have a keto-friendly balsamic glaze, drizzle a little on top for an extra glossy finish.
  10. Serve: Plate the chicken with plenty of tomatoes and sauce. Great with zucchini noodles, roasted asparagus, or a simple arugula salad.