Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

Why Make This Recipe

Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The sweet and tangy balsamic sauce complements the juicy chicken perfectly. Adding melted mozzarella cheese on top creates a deliciously creamy layer that takes this dish to a new level. It’s a simple yet impressive meal that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

How to Make Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Make the balsamic sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, basil, oregano, and minced garlic.
4. Sear the chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
5. Assemble in the baking dish: Place the chicken in the prepared dish. Pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken.
6. Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is almost cooked through.
7. Add cheese: Remove the dish from the oven, sprinkle mozzarella over each breast. Return to the oven and bake for 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken is cooked to 165°F.
8. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm.

How to Serve Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese

This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, rice, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy the warm, cheesy chicken alongside some steamed broccoli or a light pasta dish for the perfect balance.

How to Store Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese

To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the balsamic sauce for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
• If you’re short on time, you can skip the searing step and bake the chicken straight away, but searing adds a nice color and flavor.
• Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini around the chicken for added nutrition and flavor.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by using different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta, for a distinct taste. Adding olives or capers can give it a Mediterranean twist. You could also use boneless, skinless thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result.

FAQs

1. Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs, turkey breasts, or even pork chops! Just make adjustments to the cooking time if needed.

2. Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with portobello mushrooms or thick slices of eggplant, and follow the same recipe. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and the balsamic mixture in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and bake when ready to serve for the best results.

Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese

A simple yet impressive meal featuring juicy chicken breasts baked with a sweet and tangy balsamic sauce, topped with creamy melted mozzarella cheese.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• to taste Salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil For greasing and searing
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup For sweetness
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• to taste Fresh basil or parsley for garnish Optional

Method

 

Preparation and Searing

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, basil, oregano, and minced garlic to make the balsamic sauce.
4. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.

Baking

1. Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish and pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken.
2. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is almost cooked through.
3. Remove the dish from the oven, sprinkle mozzarella over each breast, and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken is cooked to 165°F.
4. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the balsamic sauce for a few hours or overnight before cooking. If you’re short on time, you can skip the searing step, but it adds nice color and flavor. Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini around the chicken for added nutrition and flavor.