Description
Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast comes together faster than takeout and tastes like something from a restaurant kitchen. Juicy chicken gets glazed with tangy balsamic for a simple weeknight dinner that’ll have your family asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella
Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 3 garlic cloves
- 2 Roma tomatoes
- Fresh basil
Liquids and Seasonings:
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to a precise 400°F, ensuring the rack is centered for even cooking.
- Craft a tangy glaze by simmering ¼ cup balsamic vinegar, 2 tbsp brown sugar, and 3 minced garlic cloves in a small saucepan over medium heat for 5-6 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Thoroughly pat your chicken breasts completely dry using paper towels to help them develop a beautiful golden exterior.
- Massage 2 tbsp olive oil across the entire surface of the chicken, then season both sides generously with ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp Italian seasoning.
- Heat an oven-safe skillet to medium-high and quickly sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Liberally brush each chicken breast with the prepared balsamic glaze, coating every inch for maximum flavor.
- Layer 2-3 fresh Roma tomato slices and 2 oz mozzarella on top of each chicken breast.
- Transfer the skillet directly into the 400°F oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken internal temperature reaches exactly 165°F.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 3-4 minutes to retain its juicy texture.
- Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the chicken and drizzle the remaining balsamic glaze just before serving.
Notes
- Create the balsamic glaze slowly to develop rich, complex flavor without burning the sugars.
- Pat chicken breasts completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden-brown sear and crisp exterior.
- For tender results, avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check internal temperature precisely at 165F.
- Swap mozzarella with dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a lactose-free version that still delivers delicious, creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Baked
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 50 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg