Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast With Mozzarella Cheese
This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines juicy, tender chicken breasts with the rich tang of balsamic glaze, melted mozzarella cheese, and fresh tomatoes. Each bite is savory, slightly sweet, and delightfully cheesy. The balsamic glaze caramelizes as it bakes, creating a beautiful balance of flavors, while the mozzarella adds a satisfying creaminess. Garnished with fresh basil, this dish brings Italian-inspired comfort to your dinner table and pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or a side of steamed vegetables.
Ingredients:
Chicken:
4 skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon salt
1 pinch cracked pepper, to taste
Garlic & Veggies:
1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic (5-6 cloves garlic, ~25 g)
2 cups grape or cherry tomatoes, halved (300 g)
1/4 red onion, peeled and sliced (50 g)
Balsamic Glaze:
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (60 ml)
1 tablespoon packed brown sugar (15 g)
Toppings:
3/4 cup shredded fresh mozzarella cheese (75 g)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Prepare Chicken:
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Cook Garlic and Vegetables:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil.
Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add the halved tomatoes and sliced red onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes.
Make the Balsamic Glaze:
Mix the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a small bowl. Pour into the skillet with the vegetables and stir well.
Add Chicken to Skillet
Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet. Spoon some of the balsamic mixture and vegetables over the chicken.
Bake:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Add Mozzarella:
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve immediately with your choice of sides like steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Notes and Tips:
Marinating for Flavor:
Marinate the chicken in balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to enhance flavor.
Cooking Temperature:
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken remains juicy and tender.
Prevent Overcooking:
To avoid dry chicken, use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Remove the chicken promptly once it reaches 165°F.
Melting the Cheese:
Add mozzarella during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow it to melt perfectly without over-browning.
Balsamic Glaze:
For a thicker glaze, reduce balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey or brown sugar on the stovetop until syrupy. Drizzle it over the chicken before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with pasta, risotto, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
A side of roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or garlic bread pairs beautifully.
Make Ahead:
Prepare the chicken and marinate it ahead of time; refrigerate until ready to bake.
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain moisture.
This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese is an easy-to-make dish that delivers gourmet flavors with minimal effort, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining!
Enjoy this flavorful and easy-to-make chicken dish!