Picture this: a tray of warm, juicy chicken bites, perfectly seasoned, topped with melted mozzarella, fresh basil, and a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze.
These Mini Caprese Chicken Bites are not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of protein that fits seamlessly into a keto lifestyle.
I first made these during a potluck with friends. They disappeared so quickly that I barely managed to grab one! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something savory and wholesome, this recipe will hit the spot.
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prep the Chicken
Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Slice them into bite-sized cubes, about 1 inch each. This ensures they cook evenly and are perfect for snacking. Pat the pieces dry with a paper towel to help them sear better.
2. Season to Perfection
In a mixing bowl, combine your chicken pieces with:
- Olive oil 🫒
- Garlic powder 🧄
- Italian seasoning 🌿
- Salt and pepper 🧂
Massage the spices into the chicken to coat each piece thoroughly.
3. Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil and sear the chicken pieces for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
They don’t need to cook through yet—we’ll finish them off in the oven.
4. Add the Caprese Magic
Transfer the seared chicken bites to a baking dish. Top each piece with:
- A small slice of fresh mozzarella 🧀
- A cherry tomato half 🍅
- A fresh basil leaf 🌱
Press the toppings lightly so they stay in place.
5. Bake Until Perfect
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the chicken bites for 8–10 minutes or until the mozzarella is melty and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Finish with a Drizzle
Once out of the oven, drizzle your mini bites with a balsamic glaze. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top for extra flavor!
Tips for Freshness
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to retain texture.
- Meal Prep: These bites freeze well. Store them without the basil or glaze; add those fresh after reheating.
Creative Additions
- Swap out cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Replace chicken with turkey for a leaner option.
Pairing Suggestions
These Mini Caprese Chicken Bites go wonderfully with:
Keto No-Bake Fudgy Mint Chocolate Cookies AND
Keto Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip
Pin This Recipe for Later!
Save this recipe to your favorite board and bring some gourmet flair to your weeknight meals. These Mini Caprese Chicken Bites are too good not to share. 🌟
Enjoy every bite, and let me know how they turned out for you!
High Protein Keto Mini Caprese Chicken Bites
4
servings10
minutes20
minutes220
kcalIngredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 🍗
1 tbsp olive oil 🫒
1 tsp garlic powder 🧄
1 tsp Italian seasoning 🌿
Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into small pieces 🧀
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 🍅
Fresh basil leaves 🌱
2 tbsp balsamic glaze 🍷
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 4g
- Fat: 10g
Ultra-Important Recipe Notes
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken!
Overcooking the chicken will make it dry and chewy. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)—this ensures perfectly juicy and tender bites every time. - Fresh Ingredients Are Key!
This recipe shines with fresh mozzarella, ripe cherry tomatoes, and vibrant basil. Avoid pre-shredded mozzarella or dried basil as they won’t deliver the same creamy texture and aromatic burst of flavor. - Searing Is Non-Negotiable!
Don’t skip the step of searing the chicken before baking. It locks in moisture and creates a flavorful golden crust, which elevates these bites from good to unforgettable. Use a hot skillet and avoid overcrowding for the best results!
