Tender, juicy chicken breasts baked with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze and topped with melty mozzarella cheese make this Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese a perfect weeknight dinner or special occasion meal. The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, and Italian herbs creates a rich, flavorful glaze that enhances the natural taste of the chicken, while cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs add vibrant color and freshness to the dish.
This recipe is approachable for home cooks of all levels, requiring simple ingredients but yielding restaurant-quality results. It’s ideal for serving with roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad, making it a balanced and satisfying meal. The baked mozzarella topping adds a creamy, cheesy layer that pairs beautifully with the tangy balsamic glaze.
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)
Preparation Method
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step helps lock in the juices and creates a flavorful crust.
In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, dried basil, dried oregano, and minced garlic to create the glaze. Pour the mixture over the seared chicken breasts, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Add the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the skillet.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the tomatoes are tender. Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken and tomatoes. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a simple green salad.
Tips for Perfect Balsamic Baked Chicken
Use a meat thermometer: Ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it is cooked through but remains juicy. Sear first: Browning the chicken before baking adds flavor and helps seal in moisture. Balance sweetness and acidity: Adjust the honey or balsamic vinegar to taste for a perfect glaze. Use fresh herbs: Adding fresh basil or parsley at the end brightens the flavor and adds visual appeal. Avoid overbaking: Check the chicken’s internal temperature to prevent dryness.
Variations and Personalizations
Add vegetables: Include sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a complete one-pan meal. Low-sodium option: Use reduced-sodium mozzarella and limit added salt. Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the balsamic glaze for a subtle heat. Herb infusion: Swap dried herbs for fresh rosemary or thyme for a fragrant alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and remain juicy with slightly longer baking time. Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the balsamic glaze and chicken in advance, then bake just before serving. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, store cooled chicken in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven. Can I use shredded cheddar instead of mozzarella? Yes, but mozzarella provides a creamier, meltier texture that complements the balsamic glaze. How do I make it dairy-free? Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
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Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese recipe is a juicy, flavorful dinner featuring tender chicken breasts baked with balsamic glaze, cherry tomatoes, and melted 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)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, basil, oregano, and minced garlic.
- Place chicken in prepared baking dish and pour balsamic mixture over the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, then remove from oven and top with cherry tomatoes and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Return to oven and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate chicken in the balsamic mixture for 30 minutes before baking.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad.
- Adjust the honey for more or less sweetness according to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese is a flavorful, satisfying dish that combines juicy chicken, a sweet-tangy glaze, melty cheese, and fresh herbs. Its balance of textures and flavors makes it a versatile dinner option, perfect for family meals, meal prep, or entertaining guests. The simple ingredients, easy steps, and beautiful presentation ensure that this dish will become a staple in your recipe collection.