Juicy, flavorful chicken breasts baked to perfection in a tangy balsamic marinade, topped with melted mozzarella and fresh basil. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to serve to guests.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a refined sugar-free option)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is best)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (freshly grated is recommended for best melting)
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (chiffonade or roughly chopped)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure the rack is in the center position.
- Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Balsamic Marinade
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined. The honey helps to balance the acidity of the balsamic vinegar and adds a touch of sweetness.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the balsamic marinade over the chicken, ensuring each breast is evenly coated. You can use a spoon or your hands (wash them thoroughly afterward!) to spread the marinade.
- For optimal flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. If marinating in the refrigerator, bring the chicken to room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Bake the chicken uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast registers 165°F (74°C). The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts, so it is crucial to use a meat thermometer to ensure they are fully cooked.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Cheese
- Remove the baking dish from the oven.
- Top each chicken breast with slices of fresh tomato, overlapping them slightly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the tomatoes and chicken.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves (chiffonade or roughly chopped) for a burst of flavor and visual appeal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful and Juicy: The balsamic marinade infuses the chicken with a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that is incredibly delicious. Baking the chicken ensures it stays moist and tender.
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal prep time and uses simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand.
- Versatile: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a great option for a weeknight meal or a dinner party.
- Healthy: Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, and the balsamic marinade adds flavor without a lot of extra calories or fat.
- Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of balsamic chicken, melted mozzarella, and fresh basil is a guaranteed hit with family and friends.
DRINK Rating:
This recipe pairs well with a crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Alternatively, a light-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais would also complement the flavors nicely. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or a refreshing iced tea.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.
- Pair with a simple salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.
- Serve over pasta with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Accompany with a side of quinoa or rice for a complete and balanced meal.
- Crusty bread for soaking up the delicious balsamic sauce
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor.
- Don’t overbake the chicken, as it will become dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it is cooked to the correct temperature.
- If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but the flavor will not be as vibrant.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the balsamic marinade.
- To prevent the cheese from browning too much, you can tent the baking dish with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Protein: 45g
- Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion:
Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese is a winner. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to impress. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to serve to guests, this recipe is a must-try. The combination of tangy balsamic, juicy chicken, melted mozzarella, and fresh basil is simply irresistible.
Questions and Answers:
- Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
- A: Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. Pat them dry with paper towels before adding the marinade to ensure it adheres properly.
- Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
- A: Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with provolone, fontina, or even a blend of Italian cheeses.
- Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- A: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to bake it just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
- Q: Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
- A: Yes, you can grill the chicken. Marinate it as directed, then grill over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Top with tomatoes and mozzarella during the last few minutes of grilling, until the cheese is melted.
- Q: What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
- A: While balsamic vinegar is key to the signature flavor of this dish, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar in a pinch. Add a little extra honey or maple syrup to balance the acidity.
