Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s both simple to make and packed with flavor, look no further than this Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese. Imagine succulent chicken breasts baked to perfection, topped with a luscious balsamic glaze, and finished off with melty mozzarella cheese. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy but is easy enough to make on a busy weeknight. Trust me, this one’s a winner!

Why You’ll Love Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese

This recipe is all about bold flavors, melt-in-your-mouth chicken, and that irresistible cheesy finish. Here’s why you’ll want to make this again and again:

Simple Yet Flavorful

The combination of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and mozzarella cheese creates a beautifully balanced dish that’s both tangy and savory. The rich flavor of the chicken perfectly complements the slight sweetness of the balsamic.

Quick and Easy

With just a few ingredients and a little bit of oven time, this dish comes together quickly—perfect for a stress-free dinner that still feels special.

Kid-Friendly

The mozzarella cheese and savory chicken are a hit with both adults and kids alike. It’s the kind of dish that’s guaranteed to please picky eaters without a fuss.

One-Pan Wonder

This recipe requires minimal cleanup—just pop everything onto a baking sheet, bake, and you’re done! It’s a no-hassle meal that makes your life easier.

Customizable

Want to make it a bit more decadent? Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil on top. Feel free to tweak the recipe to fit your taste!

Ingredients

This dish requires just a handful of ingredients that come together to create magic. Here’s everything you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
  The chicken is the star of this dish. Choose boneless, skinless breasts for a lean, tender protein that will soak up all the flavor from the balsamic and mozzarella.
• Mozzarella Cheese
  Fresh mozzarella gives the dish that gooey, melty texture that makes every bite irresistible. It adds richness and creaminess to the dish.
• Balsamic Vinegar
  This tangy vinegar provides the dish with a zesty, slightly sweet flavor. It’s the perfect complement to the savory chicken and cheese.
• Olive Oil
  Used for drizzling on the chicken, olive oil helps keep the chicken moist while enhancing the flavors.
• Garlic
  Fresh garlic will infuse the chicken with that aromatic, savory punch that pairs perfectly with balsamic vinegar.
• Dried Oregano
  Oregano adds a bit of Mediterranean flair and enhances the flavors of the chicken and balsamic glaze.
• Salt and Pepper
  A sprinkle of salt and pepper to season the chicken and bring out all the flavors.

For the Balsamic Glaze:

• Balsamic Vinegar
  Extra balsamic vinegar for the glaze. It’s reduced to concentrate its flavor, adding a glossy, sweet, and tangy finish to the chicken.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! This simple yet flavorful dish comes together in just a few steps:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the chicken will bake evenly and perfectly.

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then season with salt, pepper, garlic, and oregano. Rub the seasonings in for an even coat of flavor.

Bake the Chicken

Bake the chicken breasts for about 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and no longer pink in the center (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). The chicken will be juicy and tender!

Make the Balsamic Glaze

While the chicken is baking, pour the balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan over medium heat. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has reduced by half and thickened into a syrupy consistency.

Add Mozzarella and Balsamic Glaze

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and top each breast with a generous amount of fresh mozzarella cheese. Return the chicken to the oven for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top of the cheesy chicken before serving.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese immediately, garnished with some fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired. It’s perfect on its own or paired with a side of roasted veggies or a light salad.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350 calories

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 320mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 46g
• Vitamin A: 8%
• Vitamin C: 2%
• Calcium: 20%
• Iron: 6%

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese

This dish is versatile, so you can serve it in many different ways! Here are a few ideas:

With Roasted Vegetables

Pair the chicken with roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or zucchini. The savory chicken and sweet balsamic glaze will complement the veggies perfectly.

On a Bed of Salad Greens

Serve the chicken on a bed of mixed greens for a light and refreshing meal. Add some sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of vinaigrette for extra flavor.

With Mashed Potatoes

For a heartier meal, serve the chicken with creamy mashed potatoes. The richness of the potatoes pairs wonderfully with the tangy, balsamic chicken.

With Rice or Quinoa

Serve alongside rice or quinoa to round out the meal. These grains absorb the flavorful balsamic glaze, making each bite even more delicious.

Additional Tips

Make it a One-Pan Meal

To save on cleanup, add your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions to the baking sheet along with the chicken. The veggies will roast as the chicken bakes, absorbing all the delicious flavors.

Use Chicken Thighs

If you prefer chicken thighs over breasts, feel free to swap them in. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a little longer to cook through.

Substitute Mozzarella

If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, feel free to use another melty cheese like provolone, fontina, or even cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Make the Balsamic Glaze in Advance

If you’re short on time, you can make the balsamic glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge. It will keep for a few days and can be drizzled over salads, roasted vegetables, or other dishes.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of vinegar for the glaze?
A1: Yes! If you prefer, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but balsamic has a distinct sweetness that works best in this recipe.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A2: The chicken is best served fresh, but you can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before drizzling over the chicken.

Q3: Can I make this dish without cheese?
A3: Absolutely! You can make this recipe without mozzarella if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. It will still be delicious with the balsamic glaze on its own.

Q4: Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
A4: Yes! Boneless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Q5: What side dishes go well with this chicken?
A5: Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a light green salad are all great sides that pair perfectly with this chicken.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q7: Can I freeze this dish?
A7: Yes! You can freeze the cooked chicken (without the cheese) for up to 3 months. Just reheat it in the oven, adding fresh mozzarella on top just before serving.

Q8: Can I use a store-bought balsamic glaze?
A8: Yes! If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought balsamic glaze. Just be sure to choose a high-quality one for the best flavor.

Q9: Can I add herbs to the chicken?
A9: Absolutely! Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil would work wonderfully with this dish. Sprinkle them on the chicken before baking for added flavor.

Q10: How can I make the chicken extra juicy?
A10: To keep the chicken juicy, don’t overcook it. Using a meat thermometer will help ensure the chicken reaches 165°F without drying out.

Conclusion

This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese is the perfect combination of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors all in one bite. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that will impress anyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy every juicy, cheesy bite!

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