Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this balsamic baked chicken breast with mozzarella cheese recipe has got you covered. The magic truly begins when you place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, where tangy balsamic vinegar, sweet honey, and savory garlic mingle with juicy tomatoes and gooey mozzarella. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures—from that golden seared crust, to the bubbling cheese topping, to the fragrant herbs that tie it all together. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become one of your favorite weeknight dinners!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple, fresh ingredients come together to make an irresistible dish. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding moisture, seasoning, or that beautiful melty finish.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show, providing lean protein and a tender base for toppings.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out natural chicken flavors.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness while helping with searing and greasing the baking dish.
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar: Brings a bold tangy sweetness that brightens every bite.
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Balances acidity with gentle natural sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Offers an herbal depth that complements mozzarella wonderfully.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds classic Italian flavors that sing alongside the balsamic.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a punch of savory aroma and richness.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Burst of juicy freshness and vibrant color.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to creamy perfection, crowning the dish.
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh herbal note and pretty presentation.

How to Make Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease your baking dish with a drizzle of olive oil. This sets the stage for the chicken to crisp up without sticking. Getting everything ready helps you move smoothly through the recipe, making dinner a delightful experience.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season each chicken breast generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step is crucial—proper seasoning enhances the natural flavor and forms the base for the complex layers of taste to come.

Step 3: Make the Balsamic Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, dried basil, dried oregano, and minced garlic. This vibrant sauce brings sweetness, tang, and herbal notes in perfect harmony. It’s like a flavor party waiting to happen with the chicken.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the hot pan and sear them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden brown crust. This searing step locks in juices and creates incredible texture that you’ll crave.

Step 5: Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish

Now for the moment where it all comes together—place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the luscious balsamic mixture over the top, making sure each breast gets coated in that flavorful sauce. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken, adding bursts of color and juicy sweetness.

Step 6: Bake Until Nearly Done

Bake the dish for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is nearly cooked through. The balsamic sauce will caramelize slightly, and the tomatoes will soften to a delicious release of flavor. This step ensures tender chicken that’s infused with the tangy sauce.

Step 7: Add the Mozzarella Cheese

Take the baking dish out of the oven and sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over each chicken breast. The cheese melts into a bubbly, creamy topping that makes this dish downright irresistible.

Step 8: Finish Baking

Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This final bake melds the flavors and finishes the dish with a cheesy, gooey flourish.

How to Serve Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish

Garnishes

Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top adds a fragrant, herbal brightness and an inviting pop of green. Not only does it make the dish look restaurant-worthy, but it also adds a fresh contrast to the rich balsamic and melted cheese.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs beautifully with simple sides like garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. The sides should complement the tangy and savory flavors without overwhelming the star of the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the chicken sliced over a bed of creamy polenta or pasta tossed lightly with olive oil and fresh herbs. You can even make it into a hearty sandwich using crusty bread and some extra mozzarella slathered on top. The possibilities to showcase this dish are endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this delicious meal again without any fuss.

Freezing

If you want to save it for a later date, this dish freezes beautifully. Wrap the chicken breasts individually or keep the entire baking dish covered tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Frozen, it’s best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This helps preserve the cheese’s gooey goodness and the chicken’s juicy tenderness, unlike microwaving which can dry it out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work wonderfully and tend to be even more juicy. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs sometimes take a bit longer to cook through.

What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?

While balsamic vinegar is key for its distinctive tangy-sweet flavor, you could substitute with red wine vinegar mixed with a little honey to mimic the sweetness and acidity balance.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Simply skip the mozzarella or use a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well. The balsamic and tomato flavors will still shine beautifully on their own.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. The cheese should also be melted and bubbly.

Can I prepare this recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! This recipe scales nicely. Just ensure your baking dish is large enough or use multiple dishes. It’s a great dish to wow guests without spending all day in the kitchen.

Final Thoughts

This recipe truly shows how easy it is to elevate simple chicken breasts into a savory, crowd-pleasing meal. The moment you place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, the flavors start melding into a tantalizing harmony you won’t forget. Give it a try and watch dinner transform into a comforting feast that your whole family will love.

Print