Description
This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese offers a juicy and flavorful meal topped with melted mozzarella and a tangy balsamic glaze. It’s a simple, elegant, and delicious one-pan dinner perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, combining savory seared chicken with fresh cherry tomatoes and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Balsamic Sauce
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Toppings and Garnish
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking and help with even cooking.
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance natural flavors.
- Make Balsamic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, dried basil, dried oregano, and minced garlic until well combined to form a flavorful glaze.
- Sear Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust, which locks in juices and adds flavor.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the greased baking dish. Pour the prepared balsamic mixture evenly over the chicken. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken to roast along and develop sweetness.
- Bake Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is almost fully cooked through but not yet done.
- Add Cheese: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over each chicken breast evenly. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the chicken with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm for a comforting and delicious meal.
Notes
- You can substitute mozzarella cheese with provolone or fontina for a different melty texture and flavor.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes to the balsamic sauce for a subtle spicy kick.
- Sun-dried tomatoes can be used instead of cherry tomatoes if you prefer a more intense tomato flavor or don’t have fresh ones on hand.
- This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables to complete your meal.
