If you love simple meals that look impressive but require very little effort, this Keto Hasselback Caprese Chicken with Basil & Mozzarella is going to become a favorite in your kitchen. Inspired by the classic Caprese flavor combination, this dish transforms ordinary chicken breasts into something visually stunning and incredibly flavorful.
The hasselback technique — thin slices cut across the chicken — allows all the delicious ingredients to nestle into every bite. Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil melt together as the chicken bakes, creating a rich yet fresh flavor profile that feels restaurant-worthy.
Even better, this recipe fits beautifully into a keto lifestyle. It’s low in carbohydrates, high in protein, and full of satisfying fats, making it perfect for anyone looking for a nourishing, balanced dinner without sacrificing taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Beautiful presentation with minimal work
- Naturally low-carb and keto-friendly
- Fresh, vibrant Caprese-inspired flavors
- Juicy, tender baked chicken texture
- Ideal for weeknights or guests
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp basil pesto or olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How to Make Keto Hasselback Caprese Chicken with Basil & Mozzarella
- Preheat oven to a moderate baking temperature
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels
- Place chicken on a cutting board
- Slice thin cuts across each breast without cutting through
- Brush chicken with olive oil or pesto
- Season evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder
- Gently tuck mozzarella slices into the cuts
- Insert tomato slices between cheese layers
- Transfer chicken to a baking dish
- Bake until chicken is fully cooked and tender
- Remove from oven and rest briefly
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Course: Dinner
Flavor Profile Breakdown
- Creamy, mild melted mozzarella
- Bright acidity from tomatoes
- Herbaceous basil aroma
- Savory, juicy chicken base
- Rich, satisfying keto-friendly balance
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Cut evenly spaced slices for consistent cooking
- Avoid slicing completely through the chicken
- Use fresh mozzarella for best melt and texture
- Rest chicken after baking to retain juices
- Add extra basil for stronger Caprese character
Variations & Substitutions
- Replace tomatoes with roasted red peppers
- Use provolone or cheddar instead of mozzarella
- Add spinach for extra nutrients
- Swap pesto with garlic butter
- Sprinkle Parmesan for deeper flavor
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cutting chicken too deeply
- Overstuffing the slices causing uneven cooking
- Skipping seasoning leading to bland flavor
- Overbaking resulting in dry chicken
- Using watery cheese affecting texture
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with sautéed zucchini or greens
- Serve alongside cauliflower rice
- Add avocado slices for extra fats
- Complement with fresh salad
- Finish with drizzle of olive oil
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in airtight container
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently in oven or skillet
- Avoid high heat to prevent drying
- Best enjoyed freshly cooked
Nutrition Information (Approximate)
Calories: 360 kcal
Protein: 38 g
Carbohydrates: 6 g
Fat: 20 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 410 mg
Keto Hasselback Caprese Chicken with Basil & Mozzarella
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to a moderate baking temperature
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels
- Place chicken on a cutting board
- Slice thin cuts across each breast without cutting through
- Brush chicken with olive oil or pesto
- Season evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder
- Gently tuck mozzarella slices into the cuts
- Insert tomato slices between cheese layers
- Transfer chicken to a baking dish
- Bake until chicken is fully cooked and tender
- Remove from oven and rest briefly
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving
Notes
Carbohydrates: 6 g
Fat: 20 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 410 mg
Final Thoughts
This Keto Hasselback Caprese Chicken with Basil & Mozzarella is proof that healthy eating doesn’t need to be complicated or boring. With its beautiful appearance and fresh, bold flavors, it’s a dish that feels indulgent while perfectly supporting low-carb goals. A fantastic recipe for both everyday meals and special occasions.
FAQs
Is this recipe strictly keto-friendly?
Yes. The ingredients are naturally low in carbohydrates and fit well within typical keto macro ranges.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the chicken in advance and refrigerate it before baking.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely. Both homemade and store-bought pesto work well.
What sides work best with this dish?
Low-carb vegetables, salads, and cauliflower-based sides pair perfectly.
