why make this recipe
Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese is a delicious and easy dish that brings together the tangy sweetness of balsamic glaze with the creamy richness of mozzarella cheese. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It requires minimal ingredients and can be made in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s a healthy option packed with lean protein.
how to make Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese
Ingredients :
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh basil for garnish
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and place them in the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until browned.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the chicken and then top with mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
how to serve Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese
Serve the Balsamic Baked Chicken Hot right from the oven. It pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or some rice. If you want to impress your guests or family, sprinkle some fresh basil on top for a beautiful touch.
how to store Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese
Let any leftover chicken cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. The dish can usually be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its life, you can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
tips to make Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese
- Ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking. You can pound them to an even thickness if needed.
- For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate in the balsamic glaze for at least an hour before cooking.
- Keep an eye on the cheese while baking to avoid burning, as oven temperatures can vary.
variation (if any)
For a twist on this recipe, you can add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach to the skillet before baking. This will enhance the flavor and add a nutritious touch. Alternatively, you can use different cheeses like provolone or cheddar if you prefer.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well for this recipe too. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is balsamic glaze the same as balsamic vinegar?
No, balsamic glaze is thicker and sweeter than balsamic vinegar. It is often used as a sauce or drizzle due to its rich flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and then bake it just before serving. This allows you to enjoy a home-cooked meal even on your busiest days!
Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese
A delicious and easy dish combining tangy balsamic glaze with creamy mozzarella, perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Healthy
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large oven-safe skillet. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and place them in the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until browned.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the chicken and top with mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Marinating the chicken in balsamic glaze for at least an hour enhances flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Balsamic Chicken, Mozzarella Chicken, Easy Chicken Recipe
