Indulge in the flavorful elegance of Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese. This dish harmoniously marries succulent chicken with the rich tang of balsamic vinegar and the creamy allure of melted mozzarella, creating a perfectly refined culinary experience. Its simplicity belies its sophistication, making it an enticing option for both intimate dinners and festive gatherings.
Why Make This Recipe
- Effortless Yet Elegant: Quick to prepare, this dish exudes sophistication without the fuss.
- Minimal Ingredients: The quality of each component shines through, showcasing the beauty of simplicity.
- Impressive Flavor: A delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory makes each bite memorable.
This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast stands apart from everyday chicken dishes with its bold flavor infusion and sumptuous melt of mozzarella, making it a standout choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
Base
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey (preferably local)
Topping
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (finely chopped)
How to Make Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C), allowing the heat to create a perfectly baked exterior.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, ensuring an even coating for flavor throughout.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Tip: A golden crust enhances both flavor and presentation.
- Create the Sauce: Pour balsamic vinegar and honey over the chicken, allowing the mixture to bubble slightly. Stir to blend the flavors and coat the chicken.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from the oven; top each chicken breast with sliced mozzarella. Return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Tip: Keep a close eye on the cheese; you desire a luscious melt without browning.
How to Serve Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese
For an elegant presentation, plate the chicken on a bed of sautéed spinach or a light arugula salad. Drizzle the remaining balsamic sauce from the skillet over the chicken and garnish with finely chopped basil leaves for a vibrant touch.
How to Store Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese
To retain its tender texture and rich flavor, allow the chicken to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the chicken’s juiciness and the mozzarella’s creaminess.
Tips to Make Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese
- Use High-Quality Balsamic: Opt for aged balsamic vinegar for a deeper flavor.
- Marinate: Consider marinating the chicken in balsamic vinegar for an hour before cooking for an extra flavor boost.
- Experiment with Cheese: Swap mozzarella for provolone or burrata for a different twist.
Variation
Elevate your dish by adding sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers on top of the chicken before adding the mozzarella. This will not only add color but also introduce an enticing new flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are more forgiving and will impart a richer flavor, perfect for this preparation.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Alter the amount of honey based on your preference; you can reduce it or even substitute with maple syrup for a unique twist.
Is it possible to grill this chicken instead of baking?
Certainly! Grill the seasoned chicken breasts and then drizzle the balsamic sauce over them once cooked. The smokiness will add another layer to the flavor profile.
Conclusion
Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese offers an exquisite blend of tastes and textures that elevates a simple meal into a gourmet experience. Its easy preparation and elegant presentation make it a versatile dish for any gathering. Share your thoughts in the comments and inspire others by showcasing your culinary creations. How would you make this dish your own?
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Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Poultry
Description
Indulge in the flavorful elegance of Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese, marrying succulent chicken with tangy balsamic vinegar and creamy mozzarella.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey (preferably local)
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (finely chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Pour balsamic vinegar and honey over the chicken, stirring to blend the flavors.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached.
- Remove the skillet from the oven, top each breast with sliced mozzarella, and return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
For a vibrant touch, garnish with finely chopped basil leaves. Pair with sautéed spinach or a light arugula salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
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: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg