Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese
A delightful and easy-to-prepare dish featuring succulent chicken breasts baked in a rich balsamic glaze and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese, perfect for any occasion.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 350kcal
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Tender and lean, they provide the perfect base for this dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste Essential for seasoning, enhancing your chicken's natural flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds richness and is perfect for searing the chicken.
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar This tangy ingredient gives a delicious depth to your dish.
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the acidity of the vinegar.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil Offers herbaceous notes to enhance flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano Complements the basil with its distinct flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Provides freshness and a burst of juiciness to the dish.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully over the chicken, adding creaminess.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional) A final touch that adds color and freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), dried basil, dried oregano, and minced garlic.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish, pour the balsamic mixture over it, and scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is nearly cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken and return to the oven to bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
Consider marinating the chicken breasts in the balsamic mixture for added flavor. To make it healthier, use less cheese or swap in low-fat mozzarella. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.