Imagine biting into tender chicken breasts topped with gooey melted mozzarella, all enveloped in a rich and tangy balsamic glaze. This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese recipe elevates a simple weeknight dinner into something special. Whether you’re preparing a quick family meal or hosting friends, this dish strikes the perfect balance between easy cooking and gourmet appeal. It’s a delightful way to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why make this recipe
Why you’ll love this dish
Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary experience! What makes this recipe stand out? For starters, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s also budget-friendly, using ingredients you might already have at home. Plus, kids LOVE cheese, and who can resist that savory chicken drizzled in aromatic balsamic glaze?
"This dish has become a staple in our household! The flavors are incredible, and it’s so easy to throw together during busy weeknights." – A Happy Home Cook
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply making dinner after a long day, this recipe makes cooking fun and effortless.
How to make Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese
Step-by-step overview
Creating the perfect Balsamic Baked Chicken is as simple as 1-2-3! First, you’ll season and sear the chicken for a golden crust. Then, it bakes in a delicious balsamic sauce with fresh cherry tomatoes. Finally, it’s topped with gooey mozzarella that melts into perfection.
This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone anticipating dinner.
Ingredients
What you’ll need
To create this mouthwatering meal, gather these items:
- 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 (for a touch of sweetness)
- 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 but recommended)
Feel free to swap honey with maple syrup for a unique twist or use fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor!
Directions
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Season each chicken breast on both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), dried basil, dried oregano, and minced garlic to create the balsamic sauce.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust.
- Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish. Pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken and scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is nearly cooked through.
- Remove the dish temporarily from the oven, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over each breast, and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve warm.
How to serve Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese
Best ways to enjoy it
To elevate your meal further, consider serving this dish with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. For a Mediterranean twist, some couscous or quinoa blends can also complement the flavors beautifully. Simply garnish with fresh herbs to enhance the presentation and flavor—dinner is served!
How to store
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? No problem! Store your Balsamic Baked Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven until warmed through, ensuring the cheese remains melty. Alternatively, you can gently reheat in the microwave, but be mindful of overcooking. It’s also freezer-friendly! Just wrap portions tightly and store for up to 3 months.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
For a perfectly juicy chicken, consider brining the breasts in a saltwater solution for an hour before cooking—this helps retain moisture. Searing is crucial for adding depth of flavor while keeping the inside tender. Lastly, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking before cutting into it; this allows the juices to redistribute.
Variations
Creative twists
Don’t be afraid to get adventurous! Substitute the cherry tomatoes with roasted bell peppers or add a layer of sautéed spinach for extra nutrition. If you prefer a crispier topping, try mixing breadcrumbs with the mozzarella. Gluten-free options work great too—just replace the balsamic glaze ingredients with gluten-free varieties.
Common questions
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is minimal—about 10 minutes. With baking, you can have this meal ready in around 30 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! Assemble and refrigerate the unbaked dish a day in advance. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
What should I do if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
You can use another vinegar, like red wine or apple cider vinegar, as a substitute. Adjust the sweetness by adding a touch more honey or syrup.
Creating a memorable meal doesn’t have to be complicated. This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese is not only an easy and delicious dish but also a fantastic way to impress friends and family with minimal effort. Enjoy!
PrintBalsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese
Tender chicken breasts topped with gooey melted mozzarella in a rich and tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining friends.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten-Free
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)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Season each chicken breast on both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), dried basil, dried oregano, and minced garlic to create the balsamic sauce.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust.
- Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish. Pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken and scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is nearly cooked through.
- Remove the dish temporarily from the oven, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over each breast, and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
For juicy chicken, consider brining before cooking. Searing adds depth of flavor. Let chicken rest after baking to redistribute juices.