Description
This Balsamic Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts baked to perfection with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Enhanced with fragrant garlic and optional cherry tomatoes and basil, this dish is simple, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Balsamic Glaze
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Toppings
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
- Optional: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and season chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken to lightly coat them.
- Make balsamic glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic. Stir occasionally and simmer until the mixture reduces by half and has a syrupy consistency, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Bake chicken with glaze: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spoon a generous amount of the balsamic glaze over each breast, covering the tops. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and registers 165°F (74°C) internally.
- Add cheese and broil: Remove the foil and top each chicken breast with mozzarella cheese slices or shreds. Switch your oven to broil and place the baking dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Garnish and serve: If using, scatter halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot, spooning any extra balsamic glaze from the pan over the chicken for added flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute mozzarella with other meltable cheeses like provolone or fontina.
- For a thicker glaze, simmer the balsamic mixture longer, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked for safety and juiciness.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
