Balsamic Baked Chicken Mozzarella

This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese creates a mouthwatering Italian-inspired dinner perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for company The balance of sweet tangy balsamic glaze and gooey mozzarella cheese transforms humble chicken into something memorable The method could not be simpler and the results are irresistibly juicy with every bite

The first time I made this for my family it disappeared in minutes My kids love the cheesy topping and I love how simple cleanup is

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: look for plump boneless pieces that feel firm and fresh Good quality chicken ensures juiciness
• Salt and pepper: basic pantry staples that season and enhance all the flavors
• Olive oil: choose a robust extra virgin olive oil for a hint of Italian richness and to help the chicken stay moist
• Balsamic vinegar: pick a high quality aged balsamic for natural sweetness and depth of flavor A thicker vinegar will caramelize better
• Honey or maple syrup: use a pure variety for a subtle sweetness that balances the vinegar
• Dried basil and oregano: classic Italian herbs that bring warmth and aroma Opt for freshly opened dried herbs for best fragrance
• Garlic: select firm cloves with smooth skins for bright pungency Mince fresh to avoid bitterness
• Cherry tomatoes: buy ripe tomatoes that are glossy and firm at the market Sweetness from the tomatoes balances the tangy glaze
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: choose full fat mozzarella for superior melt and creamy texture
• Fresh basil or parsley: totally optional but adds fresh color and a pop of herbal flavor Choose bright green leaves for garnish

Step by Step Instructions

Prep the Oven and Baking Dish:

Set the oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit which ensures a hot environment for caramelizing the glaze Lightly coat your baking dish with olive oil so the chicken lifts easily once baked

Season the Chicken:

Pat chicken breasts dry to help them sear well Sprinkle both sides with a generous pinch of salt and pepper This initial seasoning flavors each bite

Make the Balsamic Sauce:

In a small bowl whisk balsamic vinegar honey basil oregano and minced garlic together Whisk until the honey is dissolved and the mixture is fragrant This will serve as your glaze

Sear the Chicken:

Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium high Once hot add chicken and sear each side two to three minutes The chicken should just turn golden but not cook through This step locks in juices

Arrange and Layer Flavors:

Move the seared chicken to your prepared dish Pour all the balsamic sauce over the chicken making sure to coat each piece Scatter cherry tomato halves around the chicken so they roast in the juices

Bake Until Nearly Done:

Place the dish in the oven and bake at four hundred degrees for twenty to twenty five minutes The chicken should almost reach full doneness at this stage The tomatoes will start to burst and sweeten

Add the Mozzarella Cheese:

Remove dish from oven Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly atop each chicken breast This makes a creamy and bubbly cheesy topping

Finish Baking and Serve:

Return the chicken to the oven and continue baking another five to ten minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit Let rest briefly before serving Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like and enjoy warm

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I always look forward to that final layer of mozzarella cheese watching it bubble and brown in the oven Growing up my family would gather as soon as we smelled the balsamic and garlic in the kitchen We still laugh about sneaking extra cheese while the chicken baked

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days When reheating place the chicken in a covered oven safe dish at three hundred fifty degrees until warmed through This helps the cheese stay gooey Avoid microwaving for extended time as the chicken could become tough

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have honey you can use maple syrup or brown sugar For a dairy free version try a plant based mozzarella If cherry tomatoes are not available sun dried tomatoes can add concentrated sweetness with a different texture

Serving Suggestions

This chicken pairs beautifully with garlic bread a green salad or simple roasted potatoes You can also slice the chicken and serve over cooked pasta using the juices from the baking dish as a light sauce For a low carb meal try with sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles

Cultural Notes

Balsamic and mozzarella are classic Italian ingredients each bringing a unique taste and tradition Balsamic vinegar originated in Modena Italy and is treasured for its sweet acid harmony Mozzarella cheese adds creaminess to countless Italian dishes and is loved worldwide for its melting qualities Combining these with chicken showcases the heart of Italian flavor combination in a weeknight friendly way

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Common Questions

→ What does balsamic vinegar add to the dish?

Balsamic vinegar brings a tangy sweetness, helping to create a rich glaze that balances the savory chicken and melts into the cheese.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well; adjust cooking time for even doneness and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

You can sear the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving for optimal texture.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Green salads, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread complement the flavors and round out the meal beautifully.

→ How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Do not overbake. Searing seals in juices, and the cheese topping helps keep the meat moist during baking.

→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, this meal is naturally gluten-free as long as all ingredients are verified gluten-free before use.