Crock Pot Chicken Caprese

Crock Pot Chicken Caprese is made with boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, garlic, red onion, and shredded mozzarella cheese. This recipe creates a tender, tangy, and cheesy Italian-inspired chicken dish. It takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes to prepare and serves 4.

Crock Pot Chicken Caprese Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 ounces)
• ½ cup balsamic vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 small red onion, diced
• Shredded mozzarella cheese, for serving
• Thinly sliced fresh basil, for serving

How To Make Crock Pot Chicken Caprese

1. Prepare Slow Cooker: Drizzle olive oil in the bottom of a 4-quart or larger slow cooker.
2. Add Chicken: Place chicken on top of the oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Mix Tomato Sauce: In a small bowl, combine tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, garlic, bay leaf, basil, and diced onion.
4. Cook Chicken: Pour the tomato mixture over the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 1½ to 2½ hours for breasts or 4 to 5 hours for thighs, until internal temperature reaches 155°F.
5. Rest Chicken: Transfer chicken to a plate, cover, and rest for 5–10 minutes.
6. Serve: Spoon warm tomato-balsamic sauce over chicken. Top with mozzarella and fresh basil. Enjoy immediately.

Recipe Tips

• Use a Thermometer: Chicken should reach 165°F after resting—don’t overcook.
• Flavor Boost: Let the sauce thicken slightly by leaving the lid off the slow cooker in the last 15 minutes.
• Use Fresh Basil: Adds the classic Caprese flavor and bright color.
• For Extra Cheese: Melt mozzarella under a broiler for a bubbly finish.
• Thighs vs. Breasts: Thighs stay juicier if cooked longer, while breasts need less time.

What To Serve With Chicken Caprese

This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple arugula salad. A side of orzo, couscous, or creamy mashed potatoes also complements the tangy balsamic sauce.

How To Store Chicken Caprese

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Warm gently in the microwave until heated through.

Chicken Caprese Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 429
• Total Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Sugar: 9g
• Protein: 53g
• Cholesterol: 156mg

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes, use about 1½ cups of chopped fresh tomatoes in place of canned.

Is balsamic glaze the same as vinegar?
No, glaze is reduced and sweeter. Stick to vinegar for this recipe.

Can I use chicken thighs?
Absolutely! They’re flavorful and stay moist longer in the slow cooker.

Can I make this without cheese?
Yes, for a dairy-free version, skip the mozzarella topping.

What’s the best way to reheat?
Microwave gently or warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth.

Try More Recipes:

• Crock Pot Chicken Bog
• Crock Pot Chicken Birria Tacos
• Crock Pot Chicken And Potatoes With Green Beans