On this particular afternoon, the weather felt just right for something warm yet refreshing. Everyone had been bustling around all morning, and I wanted to make something that didn’t feel heavy but still filled the house with comforting smells.
I peeked into the fridge and spotted some plump chicken breasts, a nearly full container of cherry tomatoes, and that reliable block of mozzarella I’d been meaning to use.The kids wandered into the kitchen asking what was cooking, drawn in by the familiar scent of garlic and the tang of balsamic: Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese
My youngest wrinkled her nose at the tomatoes at first, but she couldn’t resist stealing a roasted one straight off the baking dish later. This dish didn’t require any complicated steps, and the oven did most of the work while I chopped a quick salad on the side. Lunch was on the table in under an hour, warm, colorful, and just the kind of meal that slows everyone down long enough to sit together.
Short Description
A savory and slightly sweet baked chicken dish topped with melted mozzarella and roasted cherry tomatoes, perfect for a balanced lunch or weeknight dinner.
Key Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Tools Needed
- Baking dish
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven mitts
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. Rub the chicken breasts all over with olive oil, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Balsamic Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic until smooth and combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken. Drizzle the balsamic glaze evenly over the chicken and tomatoes.
Step 4: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Remove the dish from the oven and top each chicken breast with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella. Return to the oven and bake for another 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve
Let rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and an extra drizzle of balsamic vinegar if you like. Serve hot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Balanced and protein-rich
– Simple preparation with big flavor payoff
– Naturally gluten-free
– Ideal for lunch, dinner, or meal prep
– Family-friendly and visually appealing
Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions
Overcooking the chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F and not more.
Too much glaze: Stick to the recommended amount to avoid overly sweet or soggy results.
Using thick chicken breasts: If your chicken is extra thick, slice horizontally for even cooking.
Skipping seasoning: Don’t skip the Italian herbs—they’re essential for flavor depth.
Adding cheese too early: Wait until the last few minutes to add cheese to prevent burning.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve this dish as a plated lunch or family-style at dinner. Pair with:
– Roasted vegetables or green beans
– A crisp arugula or spinach salad
– Garlic bread or quinoa on the side
– A glass of dry white wine or lemon water
Storage and Reheating Tips
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
– Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes to retain texture.
– Avoid microwaving if possible; it softens the cheese too much.
– Freeze only if necessary—wrap tightly and thaw overnight before reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, but adjust baking time as thighs may take slightly longer.
2. What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
Use a mix of red wine vinegar and a bit more honey as a substitute.
3. Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely. Try zucchini, bell peppers, or red onions.
4. Is it okay to use fresh mozzarella instead of shredded?
Yes, just slice it thinly so it melts quickly.
5. How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a thermometer; internal temp should be 165°F (74°C) at the thickest point.
Tips & Tricks
– Use pre-shredded cheese to save time.
– Marinate chicken in balsamic for 30 minutes in advance for extra flavor.
– Let the chicken rest a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
– Line your baking dish with foil for easy cleanup.
Recipe Variations
Caprese Twist: Add sliced fresh tomatoes and basil along with mozzarella.
Spicy Kick: Mix crushed red pepper flakes into the glaze.
Vegetarian Version: Use thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms instead of chicken.
Mediterranean Style: Add kalamata olives and swap mozzarella with feta.
Low-Sugar Option: Skip the honey and increase the garlic for a more savory profile.
Final Thoughts
Each bite offers a harmony of tender chicken, sweet balsamic glaze, and melty cheese that’s hard to resist. I’ve served it to a hungry crowd and during quieter family meals, and it always finds its way to empty plates. The beauty lies in how effortlessly it comes together and how easy it is to personalize with pantry staples or seasonal produce. A handful of roasted veggies or a crisp salad on the side turns it into a complete, satisfying meal.
The next-day leftovers reheat beautifully, I think the flavors deepen even more after a night in the fridge. Meals like this remind me that cooking doesn’t need to be complicated to be memorable.
Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast With Mozzarella Cheese
Print ThisIngredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1. Season the Chicken: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Coat chicken with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Step 2. Mix the Glaze: Whisk balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic in a small bowl.
Step 3. Assemble: Place chicken in a greased baking dish, scatter cherry tomatoes, and drizzle glaze over everything.
Step 4. Bake: Cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes until chicken reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 5. Add Cheese: Top with mozzarella and bake for 5–7 more minutes, until chicken hits 165°F (74°C) and cheese is melted.
Step 6. Serve: Rest briefly, then garnish with basil and a balsamic drizzle if desired. Serve hot.
