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Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast topped with mozzarella cheese on a plate.

Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese

A quick and delicious weeknight dinner featuring juicy chicken, tangy balsamic glaze, and gooey mozzarella cheese, all baked in one pan.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Pound to even thickness for uniform cooking.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Divided for searing and greasing.
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar Substitute with apple cider vinegar if needed.
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup Can swap honey for maple syrup.
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Toasted for better flavor.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Can substitute with non-dairy cheese.
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, basil, oregano, and minced garlic.
Cooking
  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
  2. Place chicken in the prepared dish. Pour the balsamic mixture over chicken. Scatter halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken.
  3. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken is almost cooked through.
  4. Remove the dish from the oven, sprinkle mozzarella over each breast. Return to oven and bake for 5–10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and chicken is cooked to 165°F.
  5. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

For storage, keep in the fridge for up to 3–4 days covered tightly or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.