Name: Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
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)

This delicious balsamic baked chicken breast is the perfect weeknight dinner solution. Juicy chicken topped with melted mozzarella and sweet-tangy balsamic glaze creates a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This balsamic chicken with mozzarella brings together the perfect balance of flavors in one simple dish. The sweet and tangy balsamic glaze caramelizes in the oven, creating a delicious sauce that complements the savory chicken and creamy cheese. It’s elegant enough for company but easy enough for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a complete protein-packed meal that pairs beautifully with simple sides. The combination of Italian-inspired flavors and the minimal prep time makes this a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star protein in this dish. They cook relatively quickly and provide a neutral canvas for the flavorful glaze and toppings. For the juiciest result, try to select chicken breasts of similar size.
Olive oil helps the seasonings adhere to the chicken while adding moisture and preventing sticking. It also contributes a subtle flavor that complements the Mediterranean ingredients.
Italian seasoning provides an aromatic blend of herbs that infuses the chicken with classic flavors. If you don’t have the blend on hand, you can create your own with dried basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme.
Salt and black pepper are essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken. Don’t be afraid to season generously.
Cherry tomatoes add bright, juicy bursts of flavor and beautiful color to the dish. As they roast, they soften and release their sweet juices that mingle with the balsamic glaze.
Shredded mozzarella cheese creates that irresistible melty topping that browns slightly in the oven. Its mild, creamy flavor perfectly balances the tangy balsamic glaze.
Balsamic vinegar forms the foundation of the glaze, providing deep, complex sweetness with a tangy finish. Use a good quality balsamic for the best flavor.
Honey balances the acidity of the balsamic vinegar, helping the glaze caramelize beautifully in the oven and adding natural sweetness.
Garlic adds aromatic depth to the balsamic glaze. The slight pungency mellows during cooking, leaving behind a savory note that enhances the other flavors.
Fresh basil leaves are optional but highly recommended as a finishing touch. They add a fresh, aromatic element that brightens the entire dish.

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic. Set aside.
Place chicken breasts in the baking dish. Scatter cherry tomatoes around the chicken. Drizzle the balsamic glaze evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken is nearly cooked through (internal temp 160°F/71°C).
Top each chicken breast with shredded mozzarella and return to oven. Bake another 5–7 minutes, until cheese is melted and chicken is fully cooked (165°F/74°C).
Garnish with fresh basil and extra balsamic drizzle if desired. Serve hot with roasted veggies or a green salad.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings, perfect for a family dinner. It takes just 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, for a total time of 40 minutes from start to finish. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying yet moderate main dish that leaves room for sides.

Variations

Mediterranean Style: Add kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese instead of mozzarella for a Greek-inspired twist.
Caprese Chicken: Use fresh mozzarella slices instead of shredded, and add extra fresh basil and tomatoes on top after baking.
Mushroom Balsamic Chicken: Add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms to roast alongside the tomatoes for an earthy variation.
Spinach Addition: Add a layer of fresh spinach under the mozzarella during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the balsamic glaze for a hint of heat.
Herb Upgrade: Use fresh herbs instead of dried Italian seasoning for a more aromatic result.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before storing.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Freeze individual portions in airtight containers or wrap tightly in aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from browning too much. Alternatively, microwave on medium power with a damp paper towel over the top to help retain moisture.
Meal Prep: You can prepare the balsamic glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. The chicken can also be seasoned and stored in the refrigerator a day in advance.

FAQs

How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?

The most reliable way to check chicken doneness is with an instant-read thermometer. Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the breast – the meat should be white throughout with no pink areas.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to be more forgiving and stay juicier than breasts. Adjust cooking time to approximately 25-30 minutes total, still checking for an internal temperature of 165°F.

What can I serve with this balsamic chicken?

This chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad. For a low-carb option, serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead of time: season the chicken, prepare the balsamic glaze, and slice tomatoes. Store separately in the refrigerator, then assemble and bake when ready to serve. For best results, this dish is best when baked fresh.

My balsamic glaze is too thin. How can I thicken it?

If you’d like a thicker glaze, simmer the balsamic mixture in a small saucepan for 5-10 minutes before drizzling over the chicken. It will reduce and thicken naturally.

Can I use balsamic glaze instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use about 3 tablespoons of store-bought balsamic glaze if you’re short on time. However, the homemade version with garlic and honey adds more dimension to the flavor.

What type of mozzarella works best?

Low-moisture shredded mozzarella melts beautifully and won’t release too much liquid. Fresh mozzarella can also be used but may create more moisture in the dish.

How can I prevent dry chicken breasts?

Don’t overcook the chicken, use a meat thermometer, and consider brining the chicken breasts in salt water for 15-30 minutes before cooking to help them retain moisture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, just double-check your Italian seasoning blend doesn’t contain any gluten additives.

Can I add vegetables to make this a one-pan meal?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, onions, or asparagus work well. Add them around the chicken before baking, but be aware that adding more vegetables may increase the cooking time slightly.

Conclusion

This Balsamic Baked Chicken with Mozzarella Cheese is a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. The combination of tangy balsamic glaze, juicy tomatoes, and melted mozzarella transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a meal worthy of a special occasion, yet easy enough for any weeknight. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences and what you have on hand. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with both its presentation and flavor profile. Give it a try the next time you’re looking for a delicious, fuss-free dinner option that delivers restaurant-quality results.

The BEST Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese