If you’ve ever sat at the dinner table wishing for something that tasted like a restaurant dish but didn’t take a restaurant-level effort, you’re in the right place. The first time you make this Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella, you’ll notice how the tangy glaze, melted cheese, and roasted tomatoes turn an ordinary chicken breast into a cozy, comforting meal. You also feel a little victorious when a recipe that’s this simple ends up tasting so good. And because you bake everything in one dish, cleanup barely feels like a chore.
In fact, the moment you cut into that tender chicken and see the glossy balsamic sauce pooling underneath, you instantly understand why this recipe earns a permanent spot in your weeknight rotation. The Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella isn’t just easy — it’s the kind of dependable meal you turn to when you want bold flavor without fuss.
What Is Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella?
This dish is a baked chicken recipe that uses a sweet-tangy balsamic mixture, garlic, and herbs to create a glossy glaze over the chicken. When the chicken comes out of the oven, you top it with mozzarella, broil until bubbly, and spoon those caramelized pan juices right on top.
The combination feels familiar if you love Italian-American flavors, but it also stands on its own as a comforting, modern dinner. You get a mix of savory, sweet, and acidic notes without needing fancy ingredients. And because this recipe focuses on oven-baked chicken breast, you get a forgiving cooking method that doesn’t demand constant monitoring.
Why This Dish Works So Well
When you bake chicken at a high temperature, it cooks quickly and stays juicy. The balsamic mixture reduces slightly in the oven, turning into a sticky glaze. Meanwhile, the mozzarella melts into a golden blanket that balances the acidity. You end up with a dish that looks impressive yet requires little more than whisking, pouring, and baking.
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Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A juicy oven-baked chicken recipe coated in a sweet-tangy balsamic glaze, topped with melted mozzarella, roasted tomatoes, and fresh basil for a bold weeknight-friendly dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded or sliced mozzarella
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness.
- Whisk balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken in baking dish and coat with marinade.
- Scatter cherry tomatoes around the chicken and pour remaining marinade over the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Top with mozzarella and broil 2–3 minutes until melted and lightly browned.
- Rest chicken 5 minutes, spoon pan sauce over the top, and garnish with basil.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Reduce honey for a sharper glaze.
- Add extra balsamic mixture and cook on stovetop for additional sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 500
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 7
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 45
- Cholesterol: 120
Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need
Ingredient List
Here’s exactly what you need to make this flavorful recipe:
Chicken and Marinade
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
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1/4 cup olive oil
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2 tablespoons honey
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Topping and Garnish
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1 cup shredded mozzarella or 4 slices fresh mozzarella
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Helpful Equipment
You don’t need much to pull this off — a baking dish, a small bowl for the marinade, a whisk, and a meat thermometer. Using a thermometer ensures your chicken reaches 165°F without going over, which helps keep the texture tender.
Step-by-Step Preparation & Cooking Instructions
Prep Your Chicken and Glaze
Before anything else, preheat your oven to 425°F. This higher temperature helps the chicken develop color and prevents drying. If your chicken breasts are thick on one end and thin on the other, gently pound them so they cook evenly.
Next, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. The mixture may remind you of a classic vinaigrette but thicker and more fragrant.
Assemble the Dish
Place the chicken in a baking dish and flip each piece so the marinade coats every surface. Scatter cherry tomatoes around the chicken; they’ll soften and soak up the glaze while the chicken cooks. Pour any remaining marinade over the top.
Bake and Add the Cheese
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. As the chicken finishes cooking, the sauce will bubble and slightly darken.
Once the chicken hits 160°F, top it with mozzarella. Switch your oven to broil and place the dish back in for two to three minutes, just long enough for the cheese to melt and brown around the edges. The chicken will reach 165°F during this step.
Let It Rest and Serve
Give the chicken five minutes to rest so the juices settle. Spoon some of the balsamic pan sauce over the top and sprinkle with fresh basil. You’ll notice the aroma changes the moment the basil hits the warm glaze — it’s bright, slightly sweet, and incredibly inviting.
Serving Suggestions & Side Pairings
Best Sides for Balance
This recipe works with almost anything because the flavor sits right in the sweet-savory range. For a lighter dinner, serve it with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli. If you want something heartier, rice pilaf or mashed potatoes soak up the sauce beautifully.
You might also pair this dish with roasted vegetables or pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs. The balsamic glaze acts almost like a built-in dressing, so the sides don’t need much seasoning.
Presentation Tips
Spoon a little extra sauce from the pan over each piece before serving. If you enjoy dramatic color contrast, add a sprinkle of chopped basil or parsley. Serving directly from the baking dish gives this meal a family-style feel that works well for weeknight dinners.
Dietary Variations
Gluten-Free
The recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your balsamic vinegar is free from additives containing gluten. Most brands are, but you should always check the label.
Low-Calorie or Light
Switch to reduced-fat mozzarella or use a smaller amount. You can also skip the honey or reduce it to one tablespoon if you prefer a sharper, less sweet glaze. Pair the dish with roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice to keep the meal on the lighter side.
Halal
Use halal-certified chicken and double-check that your cheese is halal-friendly. Some households prefer using fresh mozzarella because it often meets dietary needs more consistently.
Dairy-Free
If you’re avoiding dairy, skip the mozzarella and serve the balsamic chicken on its own. It still tastes rich because of the cooked-down glaze. You can also use a dairy-free mozzarella-style cheese that melts under the broiler.
Vegan Adaptation
This dish can be adapted using plant-based chicken cutlets and vegan mozzarella. Keep everything else the same, and you still get a satisfying sweet-savory result. The tomatoes roast beautifully alongside vegan proteins, creating a similar texture contrast.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Tips
If you like planning ahead, marinate your chicken in the balsamic mixture up to 24 hours before cooking. This step adds depth to the flavor without any extra work later.
Once baked, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you reheat the chicken, warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes so it stays moist. Microwaving works but can make the cheese a bit rubbery, so the oven is usually the safer choice.
You can freeze the cooked chicken too, but add the mozzarella after reheating so it stays fresh and melty.
You’ll find yourself coming back to this Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella whenever you need a low-effort dinner that doesn’t taste like one. The glaze gives the chicken standout flavor, the cheese brings comforting richness, and the whole dish feels effortless in the best way. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers bold flavor without overcomplicating your kitchen routine.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can swap in chicken thighs. They stay juicy and work well with the balsamic glaze, though they may need a few extra minutes in the oven to reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Do I need to marinate the chicken first?
You don’t have to marinate it, but even 15 to 30 minutes helps the flavors sink in. If you prefer stronger balsamic and herb notes, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight.
What type of mozzarella works best?
Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and gives a creamy finish, but shredded low-moisture mozzarella also browns nicely under the broiler. Both options taste great on this balsamic baked chicken.
Why did my chicken turn out dry?
Chicken dries out when it cooks past 165°F. Try using a meat thermometer and pull it from the oven at around 160°F. The chicken reaches 165°F while the mozzarella melts under the broiler, keeping it tender.
Can I make extra balsamic glaze for serving?
Absolutely. Just double the vinegar mixture and simmer a portion on the stovetop until it thickens. It makes a great drizzle for leftovers or for serving over vegetables or rice.
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